Baghdad: Minister of Labor and Social Affairs Ahmed al-Asadi affirmed the Ministry’s commitment to strengthening cooperation with Britain in areas of mutual interest, particularly those related to regulating labor affairs and supporting employment and vocational training. He pointed to the importance of developing partnerships with British companies operating in Iraq in a manner consistent with Iraqi laws and that serves the mutual interests of both parties.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, during his meeting with British Ambassador to Iraq Irfan Siddiq, the Minister stated that Iraqi-British relations have been intertwined since the 1920s. He added that Britain plays a significant role in democratic Iraq and is considered one of the most influential countries globally and regionally, which necessitates the highest levels of cooperation, especially given the substantial investments of British companies in Iraq, particularly in the oil sector.

Al-Asadi explained that some foreign companies, including British ones, have failed to enroll their workers in social security. He emphasized that Iraqi law requires foreign workers to provide proof of their social security coverage in their home countries to be exempt from social security procedures in Iraq. He also stressed the obligation to register Iraqi workers in social security and to adhere to the Cabinet’s decision to employ 20% foreign workers and 80% Iraqi workers. However, this decision is not being implemented in most investment companies.

He indicated that there are several issues that can be discussed with the British side, including supporting Iraqi workers through specialized training courses, particularly in the oil sector. He noted that Iraq has a successful experience with South Korea through the establishment of the Iraqi-Korean Vocational Training Center, which has graduated thousands of trainees in various professions that meet the needs of the labor market. He stated that the Ministry aspires to cooperate with the British government to establish an Iraqi-British Vocational Training Center, potentially through a memorandum of understanding, given its importance in developing the capabilities of Iraqi youth and enhancing their professional skills.