An official visit to the UK by Iraq’s Minster of Interior – Mr Abdul Amir Al-Shammari (General). The Minister had a range of meetings with UK Government. The IBBC President Baroness Nicholson joined MD Christophe Michels and Senior Advisor Mr Jon Wilks hosted the Minister and his delegation during his visit in parliament.

Several IBBC members were present including Hogan Lovells, Al Burhan, London Sky, Al Zaman, Queen Mary University, Unihouse global and Date Palm Developments.

Baroness Nicholson welcomed the delegation and congratulated the work of the minister to date. Mr Al-Shammari thanked the IBBC and emphasized the success of the government in tackling security issues, provision of services and noting that travel to Iraq is now safe.

IBBC members had the opportunity to ask questions to the minister and engage in discussion with him on topics ranging from security, visa processes, education and aviation.

The Ministry of Interior is responsible for all policy with PM Al Sudani’s Government relating to overseeing policing and border control in Iraq. The MOI comprises several agencies, including the Iraqi Police, Highway Patrol, Traffic Department, Emergency Response Unit, Explosive Ordnance Disposal Unit, and Department of Border Enforcement. IBBC is grateful to its Sheikh Salih Al Barzinjie of London Sky for his help in arranging this important meeting.

Christophe Michels, MD IBBC said’ IBBC appreciates all interaction with the Government of Iraq and the opportunity for members to discuss issues directly with ministers. We are especially focused on enabling ease of business, including issuing of visas, aviation, and travel within Iraq. Having recently travelled by car through large parts of the country which in previous years were deemed unsecure I was able to witness the achievements made by the Ministry of Interior first hand. Iraq is open for business but also tourism which we believe has huge potential and as Iraq continuous on a stable pass will most likely be booming’