Ambassador of the Republic of Iraq in London Meets Chair of the UK Parliament’s Foreign Affairs Committee

His Excellency the Ambassador of the Republic of Iraq to the United Kingdom, Dr Salih Husain Ali Al-Tamimi, met with Ms Emily Thornberry, Chair of the Foreign Affairs Committee, at the Palace of Westminster in London, in the presence of several committee members representing the Labour, Conservative and Liberal Democrat parties. The meeting discussed ways to strengthen parliamentary relations between the Republic of Iraq and the United Kingdom and to develop mechanisms for cooperation and coordination between the Foreign Relations Committees in the Iraqi and British parliaments.

At the outset of the meeting, the Ambassador expressed his appreciation for the warm reception, affirming that Iraqi-British relations are witnessing growing development at various levels, particularly in the parliamentary sphere. He highlighted the importance of parliamentary diplomacy in supporting bilateral relations and enhancing political and legislative dialogue between the two friendly countries.

Both sides emphasised the importance of expanding cooperation between the Iraqi Council of Representatives and the UK Parliament through increasing reciprocal visits between members of the Foreign Relations Committees and exchanging legislative and oversight expertise, in a manner that contributes to consolidating the strategic partnership between Iraq and the United Kingdom.

The meeting also addressed political and security developments in the Middle East region, where both sides stressed the importance of dialogue and diplomatic means in addressing regional crises and enhancing security and stability. In this context, the Ambassador reaffirmed Iraq’s support for diplomatic efforts aimed at reducing tensions and strengthening regional cooperation, stemming from Iraq’s belief in the importance of building a regional cooperation framework that includes the countries of the region and contributes to consolidating regional security and achieving stability and sustainable development.

Ms Thornberry and the attending Members of Parliament affirmed the United Kingdom’s commitment to strengthening parliamentary cooperation with Iraq, stressing the importance of Iraq playing a significant role in supporting the security and stability of the region. They also underscored the importance of continuing coordination and dialogue between the legislative institutions of both countries.

At the conclusion of the meeting, both sides agreed on the importance of continued communication and joint coordination between the two countries, and of strengthening the role of the Foreign Relations Committees in supporting bilateral relations and serving shared interests.

The meeting was attended by Second Secretary Noor Abdulzahra Mohammed from the Political Section