September 21, 2025.
Basrah – Iraq
On 21st September 2025, the Iraq Britain Business Council (IBBC) Maritime Committee held its first official meeting at the Basra office of Al Zaman Group (AZG). The meeting was attended by members of the IBBC Maritime Committee, including Mr. Colin, representing the IBBC Board, alongside other distinguished members.
The purpose of this inaugural meeting was to define the objectives of the Maritime Committee and to discuss strategies for implementing its initiatives in Basra, with a strong focus on the maritime industries and the development of a maritime academy. The meeting commenced with a welcoming speech delivered by Mr. Ahmed Shaban, Chairman of the IBBC Maritime Commitiee and Chairman of Al Zaman Group. Following the address, each member introduced themselves and their respective companies, fostering an atmosphere of collaboration and shared commitment.
Presentations
1. Maritime Industries
Comprehensive presentation highlighting the current progress and initiatives of AZG in the maritime sector. Key points included:
• The joint venture between Al Zaman Group and DIC for manufacturing boats in Iraq.
• Future naval projects under discussion with a UK-based company.
• The role of AZG in contributing to Iraq’s maritime industrial growth and capacity building.
2. Maritime Academy
The second presentation focused on the concept of a Maritime Academy in Basra.
Two potential solutions were presented:
• Partnering with the Iraqi government to upgrade and develop existing maritime institutes.
• Establishing a new academy in cooperation with a UK university, which would provide international accreditation.
Both approaches were positively received, with members recognizing the importance of accredited maritime educacation in strengthening Iraq’s maritime sector.
In addition to the core maritime themes, the committee also discussed broader infrastructure projects of strategic importance, including:
• The Development Road initiative.
• Advancements in the port sector.
The IBBC team also reviewed preparations for the upcoming IBBC Conference scheduled in December 2025 in Basra, ensuring alignment with the committee’s objectives.
Following the formal discussions, Al Zaman Group hosted the commiDee members for a luncheon, providing an opportunity for further informal networking and dialogue.
The inaugural meeting of the IBBC Maritime Commitiee at Al Zaman Group’s Basra office was highly successful. Members expressed strong support and enthusiasm for the committee’s objectives, particularly in relation to advancing Iraq’s maritime industries and developing a world-class maritime academy in Basra.
This meeting marked an important step toward fostering UK-Iraq collaboration in the maritime sector and laid the groundwork for future iniCatives that will contribute significantly to the region’s economic and industrial development.
