December 4~5, 2025
Basra, Iraq
IBBC “Gateway to Iraq” Conference Showcases Iraq’s Vision for Maritime, Energy and Infrastructure Development in Basra
The Iraq Britain Business Council (IBBC) Maritime Committee held its second official progress meeting in Basra on 5 December 2025 during the IBBC Conferece in Basra “Gateway to Iraq”, with a strong focus on regulatory reform, maritime education, and Iraq’s strategic maritime projects. The meeting was managed and led with active contribution from Al Zaman Group (AZG) under the chairmanship of Mr. Ahmed Shaban, highlighting AZG’s central role in guiding the committee’s technical and strategic direction.
The meeting was attended by senior representatives from the State Company for Maritime Transportation, the Iraqi Supreme Maritime Authority, and the General Company for Ports of Iraq, in addition to other officials and industry leaders from both the public and private sectors. Their participation reflected the growing national importance of the IBBC Maritime Committee as a coordination platform for Iraq’s maritime development.
One of the main priorities discussed was the urgent need to restore Iraq to the international “white list” through full compliance with International Maritime Organization (IMO) regulations, a step viewed as critical for reactivating Iraq’s global shipping operations and enhancing confidence in the national maritime system.
Maritime education and certification were also central to the discussions. The committee stressed the need for an officially approved maritime academy in Iraq to deliver internationally recognized training. In this context, Al Zaman Group contributed by providing access to up-to-date IMO Model Courses to the Arabian Gulf Academy, supporting the development of certified training pathways aligned with international standards.
The meeting also addressed Iraq’s major strategic infrastructure projects, particularly the Development Road Project and the Al Faw Grand Port, both identified as vital pillars for transforming Iraq into a regional trade and logistics hub.
The meeting concluded with a reaffirmation of Al Zaman Group’s continued leadership in managing and supporting the committee’s work, and a shared commitment among members to rebuilding Iraq’s maritime sector in line with international standards and long-term national development goals.
