Generations of friendship, a future of opportunity

A relationship that is long-standing, layered, and grounded in mutual respect — and growing across every field that matters to both nations.

A partnership with depth

The United Kingdom’s longstanding relationship with the Kurdistan Region of Iraq spans diplomacy, security, education, trade, humanitarian cooperation, and ties between people.

The Region’s strategic position, relative stability, young population, resources, and cultural diversity offer significant opportunities, alongside challenges requiring informed engagement.

From London, the Kurdistan Society brings people together to deepen understanding, strengthen relationships, and advance practical cooperation.

Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh, meets representatives of the Kurdistan Regional Government
Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh, meets the Kurdistan Regional Government in Erbil — the first official visit to the Region by a British Royal.
Where we connect

Seven fields, one shared ambition

The relationship reaches across public policy, trade, education, culture, and civil society. Each field offers opportunities for deeper, carefully informed engagement.

Diplomacy & International Affairs

Dialogue between the United Kingdom and Kurdistan Region of Iraq’s representatives, parliamentarians, policy specialists, and regional stakeholders.

Security & Regional Stability

A partnership shaped by years of close cooperation on the region’s most pressing challenges.

Trade & Investment

Better market intelligence, stronger professional networks, and responsible opportunities for British and Kurdish businesses to trade, invest, and share expertise.

Energy & Infrastructure

Discussion and partnership in energy, water, transport, construction, and other systems central to sustainable economic development.

Higher Education & Research

Links between universities, scholars, and students that build knowledge across both nations.

Arts & Culture

Exhibitions, performance, literature, music, and public discussion that bring Kurdish perspectives to UK audiences and encourage creative exchange.

Tourism & Heritage

Greater awareness of the Kurdistan Region of Iraq’s landscapes, archaeological sites, living traditions, and visitor economy.

Grape vines heavy with fruit at a vineyard in the Kurdistan Region
Agriculture
Engineers at work on energy infrastructure in the Kurdistan Region
Industry
A visitor overlooks the historic hilltop town of Amedi
Culture
Two nations

A friendship rooted in shared values

Two proud nations, each with a deep heritage and an outward-looking spirit — brought closer by history, and by the promise of what lies ahead.

Warwick Castle reflected in the river, United Kingdom
United KingdomDiplomatic reach, established institutions, world-leading universities, creative industries, and expertise across finance and professional services.
Modern towers lit at night in a Kurdish city
Kurdistan Region of IraqA strategically located region with a young population, diverse communities, strong cultural traditions, natural resources, and an ambitious private sector.