The Prime Ministers of the United Kingdom and Iraq, Sir Keir Starmer and Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani, have solidified a new era of cooperation during Al-Sudani’s official visit to the UK from January 14–16, 2025. The visit witnessed historic agreements, including a £12.3 billion trade package, a landmark Partnership & Cooperation Agreement (PCA), and collaborations across trade, defense, climate, education, and culture. The commitments underscore a shared vision of prosperity, security, and long-term partnership.

Strengthening Bilateral Relations and Economic Cooperation

During the visit, Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer congratulated his Iraqi counterpart on Iraq’s stability and growth under his leadership. The two leaders reaffirmed their dedication to building a prosperous and sovereign Iraq. This collaboration, framed by the signing of a Partnership & Cooperation Agreement (PCA), has ushered in a trade package valued at £12.3 billion, significantly boosting bilateral trade and investment opportunities.

The agreements encompass vital infrastructure projects supported by UK expertise and aim to transform Iraq’s water systems, telecommunications, energy networks, and defense capabilities. These include:

•De-mining Efforts: UK companies will clear mines across Iraq, a contract worth £330 million.

•Rehabilitation of Al-Qayyarah Airbase: A £500 million project to enhance Iraq’s air defense infrastructure.

•Comprehensive Water Infrastructure Projects: A £5.3 billion initiative to provide clean water, improve agricultural irrigation, and enhance living standards.

•Basra Water Desalination: A £3.3 billion UK-led initiative to supply clean water to three million Iraqis in Basra province.

•Energy Grid Interconnections: Projects worth £1.2 billion will link Iraq and Saudi Arabia’s power grids.

•5G Telecommunications Rollout: Vodafone will design Iraq’s 5G network, a £410 million project.

•Railway Development: A £82 million project to build a new railway in Iraq.

•Baghdad Sanitation Project: A £655 million water management and sewage treatment solution for Baghdad.

•Border Security Enhancements: UK companies will provide £66.5 million worth of cutting-edge border security equipment.

This ambitious package, facilitated by the UK Export Finance (UKEF), is poised to accelerate Iraq’s socio-economic development while strengthening the UK’s economic ties in the region.

Defense and Security Cooperation

The leaders acknowledged the pivotal role of the UK-Iraq defense and security relationship. Reflecting on over a decade of the Global Coalition’s military mission in Iraq, the Prime Ministers honored the sacrifices of Iraqi and UK forces in defeating Daesh.

A Joint Statement on the Strategic Bilateral Defense Relationship was signed, paving the way for:

•Enhanced military education exchanges.

•Advisory support for defense reforms.

•Development of defense industrial partnerships.

The agreement aims to bolster Iraq’s counter-terrorism efforts, regional stability, and security while reinforcing aviation safety standards.

Addressing Migration and Organized Crime

The visit marked a significant step in strengthening cooperation on migration. Both leaders agreed on principles for a swift returns agreement to manage irregular migration effectively. Building on the Home Secretary’s recent visit, landmark agreements were signed to enhance border security and disrupt people-smuggling networks.

Key measures include:

•Deployment of police communications equipment.

•Advanced border technology to secure Iraq’s crossings, checkpoints, and airports.

•Training programs for Iraq’s Ministry of Interior to strengthen emergency response capabilities.

These initiatives reflect a shared commitment to combating organized immigration crime and ensuring safer borders while driving mutual growth.

Cultural and Educational Partnerships

Prime Ministers Starmer and Al-Sudani underscored the importance of cultural and educational exchanges to deepen trust and cooperation. Acknowledging Iraq’s rich educational history, they announced:

•A significant scholarship program enabling over 2,000 Iraqi students to study in the UK.

•High-level agreements between UK and Iraqi universities to foster research collaboration.

•Promotion of English language learning and international school qualifications to unlock further opportunities for exchange.

These initiatives aim to empower students and academics, fostering a generation of leaders who can drive progress in both nations.

Advancing Women’s Rights and Empowerment

The Prime Ministers reaffirmed their commitment to the Women, Peace, and Security agenda. Key agreements include:

•Support for Iraq’s third National Action Plan and a network of women peacebuilders, launching in March 2025.

•Strengthened efforts to support survivors of Daesh-perpetrated sexual violence, including mothers and children born of conflict-related violence.

•Continued advocacy for girls’ education and women’s economic empowerment to benefit society at large.

Tackling Climate and Environmental Challenges

Recognizing the global urgency of climate change, the UK and Iraq signed a Memorandum of Cooperation on Climate Change, the Environment, Energy Transition, and the Carbon Economy. Key highlights include:

•Iraq’s commitment to end gas flaring by 2028, reducing environmental and economic damage.

•UK support for clean energy initiatives, including a commitment to achieve clean power by 2030.

•Joint efforts to address environmental degradation and promote sustainable development.

This partnership signifies a bold commitment to achieving cleaner, more sustainable energy systems in Iraq.

Enhancing Sports Exchange and Cooperation

The visit also emphasized the importance of sports in strengthening bilateral ties. The Prime Ministers encouraged collaboration between sports associations and highlighted opportunities for:

•Exchange programs among sports teams.

•Cooperation in sports science and medicine.

This initiative fosters mutual benefits and promotes cultural exchange through sports.

Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani’s visit to the United Kingdom has marked a turning point in UK-Iraq relations, solidifying partnerships across trade, defense, education, and climate. The landmark agreements not only reflect shared goals but also lay a strong foundation for mutual growth and prosperity in the years to come. Through strategic cooperation, the UK and Iraq are poised to address regional and global challenges, ensuring a prosperous future for both nations.