September 22, 2025.
Basra, Iraq
Al Zaman Group: Strengthening Port Capabilities and Global Cooperation — A Strategic Meeting Between the General Company for Ports of Iraq and the Iraqi–British Business Council (IBBC)
In a move that underscores Iraq’s commitment to modernizing its maritime infrastructure and enhancing international collaboration, the Director General of the General Company for Ports of Iraq, Dr. Eng. Farhan Al-Fartousi, welcomed a high-level delegation from the Iraqi–British Business Council (IBBC) at the company’s headquarters in Basra.
The delegation was led by Mr. Colin Findlay, the British representative of the IBBC, and included Dr. Ali Jawad, the council’s representative in Basra; Mr. Ali Mashkoor, Director of the IBBC’s Baghdad Office; and Mr. Ahmed Shaban, Head of the Maritime Committee and council member.
During the meeting—held in alignment with the directives of the Minister of Transport, Mr. Razzaq Muheebis Al-Saadawi—both sides discussed opportunities for strategic cooperation, coordination, and knowledge exchange between Iraq and the IBBC across key sectors of transportation and maritime development.
Dr. Al-Fartousi highlighted the importance of developing national competencies and enhancing the skills of port staff, noting the necessity of establishing or revitalizing a specialized academic or training institution in partnership with the IBBC.
“Such an institution will be a cornerstone for building future leaders in Iraq’s port sector and ensuring our workforce operates at world-class standards,” he stated.
He further emphasized the company’s dedication to empowering national talent:
“Our focus remains firmly on our people — building capable leaders who can manage complex port and investment projects according to the highest international benchmarks. Collaborating with British institutions will provide the scientific and technical expertise needed to strengthen Iraq’s maritime strategies and operational performance.”
This meeting reflects the General Company for Ports of Iraq’s ongoing efforts to elevate its human capital and expand global partnerships, contributing to greater efficiency in port operations and maximizing Iraq’s economic potential.
