UK/Kurdistan Relations: A Deepening Commitment

Of course, bringing in companies is only one side of making a successful commercial relationship. The host authority must also put in place the components of any effective investment regime. With a GDP growth rate of over 10% in 2012, the Kurdistan Regional Government has a good story to tell. Equally important has been the KRG commitment to strengthening the efficiency and transparency of its public administration, though more still needs to be done.

More broadly, progress by the KRG and the Iraqi Government in resolving their economic and territorial disputes would also not only enhance Iraq’s stability but also enable the Region to expand as a gateway for trade and investment to the whole country.

For our part, we will remain a steadfast friend of Kurdistan. In a further demonstration of our commitment, Lord Marland will launch our new Visa Application Centre in Erbil next week. Business people, tourists and other valued Kurdish visitors will no longer have to travel to Amman or Baghdad to apply for a UK visa.

To reiterate, I am determined that the UK, and UK businesses, will entrench their position as a partner of choice for Kurdistan. And I and my staff at the British Consulate General will do all we can to reinforce the strong links that already exist. Though our bilateral interaction has grown exponentially over the last few years, I am convinced that even more exciting times lie ahead for British companies and our local partners.