Bill Rammell visit to Basra

Bill Rammell is in Iraq this week, on his first Ministerial visit overseas since taking up his position as Minister to the Middle East last week. His visit follows earlier trips to the region this year by the Foreign Secretary David Miliband in April and Prime Minister Gordon Brown in July.

This visit is an opportunity for Bill Rammell to meet leaders from Iraq's main communities and discuss a wide range of issues affecting both the UK and Iraq. Focus will be given to the present situation in the region and the building of a long term and mutually beneficial relationship between the two countries.

A few days into his visit Bill Rammell commented on the hard work and dedication of HMG staff based in Iraq and the progress being made in the region. He said

`I am really pleased to visit Iraq within my first 10 days in post. Despite ongoing challenges I'm very impressed by the progress being made in Iraq.

To read the full article on the Isria website click here.