2^nd October 2025 – The IBBC President, Baroness Nicholson of Winterbourne and IBBC members met the governor of Najaf, H.E. Mr Yousif Kinawi. The meeting was chaired by IBBC Managing Director, Christophe Michels, and hosted by Ardil Salem in the Hogan Lovells HQ. The aim of the meeting was for the governor to discuss the opportunities for British businesses in Najaf while the IBBC considered ways to support and facilitate their involvement.

The governor highlighted the importance of Najaf as a cultural and historical centre. He is eager to develop Najaf and hopes British businesses can contribute. The governor and IBBC members explored ways to support several sectors in need of investment, including transport, infrastructure, higher education, and agriculture, to name a few. More time was devoted to exploring ways to facilitate travel from Najaf to Europe and to addressing the high demand for healthcare in Najaf.

The governor noted that the high-quality services British businesses provide can bring more stability to his governorate. It was agreed that more private investment in infrastructure projects would increase competition and therefore the quality of services in Najaf. The Governor invited the IBBC to Najaf.

Christophe thanked the governor for his time and agreed to follow up on the governor’s queries.