By John Lee.
Iraq and the United Kingdom have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) focused on climate change, environmental sustainability, and carbon economics, marking a significant step in bilateral cooperation.
The agreement was formalised during Prime Minister Mohammed S. Al-Sudani's meeting with UK Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, David Lammy, in London.
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Fuad Hussein and David Lammy signed the MoU, which outlines a five-year roadmap to reduce Iraq's carbon footprint. The plan prioritises eliminating gas flaring and venting, enhancing energy efficiency, and accelerating the adoption of renewable energy sources like wind and solar power.
The MoU also emphasises workforce development to support Iraq's transition to a green economy, improve environmental conditions, and establish robust carbon markets. Discussions during the visit included regional stability, security, and further economic cooperation, paving the way for a stronger partnership between Iraq and the UK.
Full statement from the Iraqi Prime Minister's Office:
Iraq and the United Kingdom Sign a Memorandum of Understanding on Climate Change, Environment, and Carbon Economics
Prime Minister Mohammed S. Al-Sudani met today with the United Kingdom Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, Mr. David Lammy, at his residence in London.
The meeting focused on exploring avenues for cooperation between Iraq and the United Kingdom across various sectors and enhancing bilateral ties, building on the understandings reached earlier today. The visit marks a new era in bilateral relations, paving the way for a comprehensive and promising partnership.
Discussions also included a review of regional and international matters, developments in the Middle East, and the importance of supporting efforts to achieve security and stability both regionally and globally.
Following the meeting, a ceremony was held to sign a Memorandum of Cooperation on climate change, environmental issues, and carbon economics between Iraq and the United Kingdom. The memorandum was signed on behalf of Iraq by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mr. Fuad Hussein, and on behalf of the UK by Secretary of State Mr. David Lammy. The agreement aims to deepen collaboration in promoting sustainable energy reliance while enhancing opportunities for development, trade, investment, and related industrial integration.
The memorandum outlines a collaborative effort on a comprehensive five-year roadmap designed to reduce gas flaring and significantly lower Iraq's short-term carbon footprint. A key focus of the plan is the complete elimination of flaring and venting of associated gas, alongside initiatives to enhance energy efficiency across the board. The roadmap also prioritizes accelerating the integration of renewable energy sources, including wind and solar power, as part of Iraq's transition to sustainable energy. Additionally, it emphasizes the importance of workforce training to support this energy transition, advancing the green economy, improving environmental conditions, and fostering the development of robust carbon markets.
(Source: PMO)
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