The UK will continue to stand by Iraq as it deals with the
current economic crisis and devastating impact of
coronavirus, International Development Secretary said during a
virtual visit to the country today (Thursday 9 July).
The Secretary of State saw how UK aid is helping the
Government of Iraq to deliver critical economic reforms and
tackle coronavirus in the country.
She held a series of virtual meetings with UK partners in
the country, where the virus is continuing to spread and
the worsening economic situation threatens the livelihoods
and futures of millions of Iraqis.
Since 2014 UK aid has helped to meet the urgent needs of
people affected by the conflict with Daesh. The UK is
supporting the Government of Iraq to stabilise and rebuild
Iraq, laying the foundations for lasting peace and
prosperity.
International Development Secretary said:
“The UK is standing by Iraq and will continue to do so as
it deals with the current economic crisis and coronavirus
outbreak, which are threatening the lives and livelihoods
of millions of people.
“During my virtual visit I saw how UK aid is helping the
country address its health, economic, and security
challenges and was able to reaffirm our strong commitment
to a safe, prosperous and stable Iraq.”
The International Development Secretary spoke to the
Minister of Finance, Mr Ali Allawi, about how the UK can
continue to support Iraq as it embarks on ambitious
economic reforms.
She also heard from young Iraqi entrepreneurs about the
challenges businesses face in Iraq, including from
coronavirus, and saw how UK support to government-led
reforms will help the private sector to grow.
Speaking with representatives from the United Nations,
World Bank and International Monetary Fund, the Secretary
of State reaffirmed the importance of coordinating
international support for Iraq as it deals with the
economic impact of coronavirus.
To date the UK has pledged £764 million to the global fight
against coronavirus, including funding international
efforts to develop a safe, workable coronavirus vaccine
that will be available throughout the world – as the
biggest country donor to the Coalition for Epidemic
Preparedness Innovations (CEPI).
