The IBBC embarked on a highly successful trade mission to Baghdad, marking a significant milestone in fostering economic cooperation between Iraq and the UK.

The Iraq Britain Business Council (IBBC) trade delegation led by Baroness Nicholson, President of IBBC, with representatives of more than 10 member companies, visited Iraqi government ministers and officials during a trade mission to Baghdad on the 3^rd and 4^th of March. The trade mission’s itinerary included high-level meetings with prominent figures within the Iraqi government, reflecting the IBBC commitment to facilitating meaningful dialogue and collaboration. Among distinguished officials met were H.E. Ali Al Alaq, Governor of the Central Bank of Iraq , H.E. Hayyan Abdul Ghani, Deputy Prime Minister for Energy Affairs and Minister of Oil, H.E. Abbas Jabur Al Maliky, Minister of Agriculture, H.E. Razzaq Muhaibis Al-Saadawi, Minister of Transport,  H.E. Mr. Zyad Ali Fadhil, Minister of Electricity, H.E. Ambassador Mohammed Hussein Mohammed Bahr AlUloom, Deputy Minister for Bilateral Relations at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Dr. Abdulkareem Al Faisal, Chairman of the Prime Ministers Advisory Commission and a meeting with the Political office of the State of Law coalition.

Discussion held at the ministries revolved around the Iraqi government’s program, projects and plans for the coming years. Members of the trade delegation introduced themselves and their companies to the ministers. Ministers expressed a keen interest in actively engaging with private sector companies operating within Iraq.

The members of the trade delegation expressed sincere appreciation to the IBBC for orchestrating a series of productive meetings with government officials during their visit to Baghdad. These meetings provided invaluable opportunities for dialogue, engagement, and collaboration, furthering the shared goal of promoting economic development and fostering partnerships between Iraq and the United Kingdom.

The following IBBC members participated in the trade mission:

1. AAA Holding Group
2. Al Burhan Group
3. Al Hadeel Al Hasan LLC
4. Basra Gateway Terminal
5. Control Risks
6. GE, Iraq
7. Hydro-C Ltd
8. Management Partners SPC
9. Sardar Group
10. Standard Chartered Bank
11. TurnKey LLC
12. UB Holding
13. Unihouse
14. AL Zaman Group for Trading

Christophe Michels, Managing Director of IBBC stated: “The IBBC reaffirms its commitment to continued cooperation and partnership to unlock the potential of Iraq’s economy. IBBC members continue to make meaningful contributions to Iraq’s journey towards prosperity and development.”

Abir Burhan of the Al Burhan group said. “The trade mission to Baghdad was an unparalleled success, providing a unique platform for meaningful dialogue and partnership between diverse stakeholders. Under the astute guidance of the IBBC and the visionary leadership of Baroness Nicholson, we were able to forge new connections, deepen existing relationships, and lay the groundwork for collaborative projects that promise to drive forward economic development and mutual prosperity. The spirit of cooperation and shared ambition was truly palpable throughout the mission, offering a vivid testament to the potential that lies in our collective efforts. I am optimistic about the future collaborations that will stem from this mission and am grateful for the chance to contribute to such a pivotal moment in the strengthening of ties between our nations.”

During the visit, Mr. Mohammed Alsaadi, CEO of Sama Hammurabi for Law and Legal Consultations, held a reception and dinner at the Hunting club on the honour of Baroness Nicholson and the visiting trade delegation and the IBBC held a reception for members and friends at the British Ambassador’s residence in Baghdad.