UK and Iraq Forge Stronger Ties to Tackle Trade, Growth, and Illegal Migration

 

In a landmark meeting held at Downing Street today, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia’ Al Sudani unveiled a series of initiatives designed to bolster bilateral trade, stimulate economic growth, and strengthen border security. The discussions marked a pivotal moment in UK-Iraq relations, showcasing a shared commitment to mutual prosperity and regional stability.

Transformative £12.3 Billion Trade Package

The highlight of the meeting was the announcement of a £12.3 billion export package, a deal worth ten times the volume of last year’s trade between the two nations. The agreement, supported by UK Export Finance, is expected to unlock substantial opportunities for British businesses across critical sectors such as water, energy, telecoms, and defence infrastructure.

Prime Minister Starmer described the deal as a "step-change in the trade and investment relationship between our two countries," emphasizing the potential for shared economic benefits and stronger private sector collaboration.

“This package is a testament to our shared ambition of driving growth and delivering for our citizens,” Starmer said.

Tackling Illegal Migration

In parallel, the leaders initiated discussions on a bespoke migrant returns agreement aimed at addressing illegal migration. This agreement will streamline the process of returning individuals with no legal right to remain in the UK, while disrupting the operations of people-smuggling gangs.

The UK has already taken significant steps to secure its borders, including exporting £66.5 million worth of equipment to Iraq to enhance border security and combat smuggling. This initiative aligns with the government’s broader “Plan for Change,” which prioritizes secure borders and economic growth.

Home Secretary Yvette Cooper highlighted the importance of the partnership, stating, “By strengthening border security, enhancing intelligence-sharing, and dismantling criminal networks, we are safeguarding vulnerable individuals and delivering justice.”

Strengthening Security and Defence

The leaders also reinforced their commitment to regional stability and defence cooperation. A decade after the UK’s role in the territorial defeat of Daesh, a new joint statement was signed to deepen defence ties and strengthen Iraq’s security infrastructure. This move builds on agreements reached during the Home Secretary’s visit to Iraq in November, which included enhanced law enforcement and border security initiatives.

A Foundation for Long-Term Growth

Secretary of State for Business and Trade Jonathan Reynolds lauded the agreements as a “vote of confidence in Britain’s role as a proud trading nation.” He emphasized that the export package and related agreements would provide greater certainty for businesses while fostering genuine shared benefits.

In addition, the UK’s newly launched sanctions regime targeting people smugglers is expected to deliver a severe blow to illicit financing networks. These measures underscore the UK’s commitment to combating illegal migration and supporting international law enforcement efforts.

A Renewed Partnership

Today’s discussions symbolize a new chapter in UK-Iraq relations, characterized by deeper economic, security, and defence collaboration. As Prime Minister Al Sudani concluded his visit, both leaders expressed optimism about the potential for continued progress and enduring cooperation between their nations.

“Our partnership is rooted in shared priorities and mutual respect,” Starmer stated. “Today, we lay the groundwork for a future of shared prosperity and security.”