Iraq’s Next Chapter

As Iraq advances its programme of economic reform and international engagement, its relationship with the United Kingdom is entering a new phase of opportunity—one that Ambassador H E Dr Salih Husain Ali Al-Tamimi is determined to help shape. Returning to London more than a decade after his first posting here, Ambassador Al-Tamimi, is a career diplomat with an unusual foundation in engineering and academia. He combines technical expertise, strategic policy experience and extensive diplomatic service across Europe, the Middle East and multilateral organisations.

Having previously served as Iraq’s Ambassador to the UK (2015–19) and before that to Spain, while also serving as Iraq’s Permanent Representative to UN Tourism Organisation and the International Olive Council, Dr Al-Tamimi was also Dean of Iraq’s Foreign Service Institute. But he returns to London with a clear objective: strengthening one of Iraq’s most important bilateral relationships while promoting Iraq as a stable, forward-looking destination for international partnership and investment.

Returning to London

For Ambassador Al-Tamimi, London remains both familiar and transformed.

Having arrived back in the UK in January 2026, he notes not only the city’s enduring global influence but also what he sees as an increasingly positive engagement with the Middle East. “London still retains its lustre, civilisation, beauty and influence.”

He also observes a more open atmosphere than during his previous posting eleven years earlier, particularly in Britain’s engagement with the region and in the support extended to diplomatic missions.

The return represents more than another overseas assignment; it is a continuation of a relationship that has evolved alongside Iraq’s own changing place on the international stage.

From Engineering to Diplomacy

Dr Al-Tamimi’s professional journey began in academia. Holding degrees in Electrical and Electronic Engineering, Control and Computer Engineering, and a PhD in Computer Engineering and Information Technology, he spent many years as a university professor, supervising Master’s and doctoral students while publishing research internationally. His academic interests were later complemented by advanced studies in international law in the UK.

Rather than leaving academia behind, he brought its analytical discipline into diplomacy. “I wanted to have a broader impact in serving my country,” he explains, seeing diplomacy as a means of connecting Iraq with international expertise and transferring knowledge and experience back home.

This combination of scientific thinking and public service has become a defining characteristic of his diplomatic career.

Building International Partnerships

During his tenure as Ambassador to Spain between 2022 and 2026, economic diplomacy was a central priority.

His mission focused on presenting a contemporary picture of Iraq—one characterised by improved security, political stability and expanding opportunities for international investment.

Working closely with both Iraqi and Spanish institutions, his efforts led to increased high-level visits and political exchanges, the establishment of the Iraqi-Spanish Business Council, and the signing of numerous agreements and memoranda of understanding designed to deepen bilateral cooperation.

The objective extended beyond increasing trade.

It was about building long-term confidence among international investors and demonstrating Iraq's commitment to sustainable economic development across multiple sectors. “This required significant efforts to convey a reassuring message to companies and businessmen through the governments of both countries.”

Modernising Diplomatic Training

Before returning to ambassadorial service, Dr Al-Tamimi served as Dean of Iraq’s Foreign Service Institute while simultaneously holding the position of Undersecretary for Policy Planning Affairs.

His tenure coincided with one of the most disruptive periods in recent history: the COVID-19 pandemic. Rather than allowing the crisis to halt progress, he viewed it as an opportunity to modernise one of Iraq’s oldest diplomatic institutions.

A key priority was moving beyond traditional approaches to diplomatic education by embracing digital transformation, new technologies and internationally recognised standards for diplomatic training. For an institution responsible for preparing future generations of Iraqi diplomats, modernisation became both an immediate necessity and a long-term investment.

Ambassador of Iraq with Marshal of the Diplomatic Corps Alistair Harrison CMG, CVO

A New Phase in Iraq–UK Relations

As Ambassador to the UK, Dr Al-Tamimi identifies economic cooperation as the cornerstone of the next phase of bilateral relations.

While acknowledging the already strong political relationship between Iraq and the UK, he believes considerable opportunities remain for expanding commercial engagement. “One of my priorities is to strengthen the relationship between our two countries."

His focus includes encouraging greater British investment in Iraq while facilitating stronger private-sector partnerships.

Particular emphasis is placed on working alongside institutions such as UK Export Finance (UKEF) and the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) to support investment, develop Iraq’s private sector and create sustainable economic growth.

This strategy aligns closely with the Iraqi Government’s wider programme of economic diversification, reducing dependence on hydrocarbons while encouraging development across sectors including energy, electricity, healthcare, agriculture and manufacturing.

Iraq’s Investment Story

Looking beyond traditional energy partnerships, Ambassador Al-Tamimi believes Iraq offers opportunities across a much broader economic landscape.

While oil and gas remain central components of bilateral cooperation, he sees increasing scope for British expertise in infrastructure, healthcare, industrial development and technology.

The ambition is not simply to attract foreign capital, but to localise industry, create employment and strengthen Iraq’s long-term economic resilience.

For British businesses seeking growth opportunities in emerging markets, Iraq represents an increasingly significant destination.

A Message to International Partners

Throughout the conversation, one theme remains consistent: Iraq wishes to be seen through the lens of opportunity rather than conflict. “We seek to develop relations and engage international partners in all sectors by conveying a message that Iraq is safe and stable.”

Ambassador Al-Tamimi emphasises that Iraq today seeks regional cooperation, economic integration and constructive international partnerships. “We want Iraq to play a positive role in contributing to regional stability, building solid relations and helping to resolve conflicts.”

Its strategic geographic location, combined with strong regional relationships, positions Iraq as an important participant in future economic connectivity projects across the Middle East.

He also highlights the country’s appreciation for international partners who supported Iraq during its fight against terrorism, noting that the next chapter is centred on reconstruction, development and shared prosperity.

While in London, Dr Salih Husain Ali Al-Tamimi, is also the Republic of Iraq’s Permanent Representative of to the International Maritime Organisation. This comes as part of Iraq’s efforts to strengthen its active presence within international organisations and to expand avenues of multilateral cooperation.

Balancing Diplomacy in a Complex Region

Asked about Iraq’s greatest diplomatic challenge, the Ambassador points to a careful balancing act.

Protecting Iraq’s sovereignty while maintaining productive relationships across an increasingly complex international environment requires measured diplomacy and consistent engagement.

For Baghdad, strengthening regional and international partnerships is viewed not only as a foreign policy objective but also as an essential component of domestic development and national reconstruction.

A Memorable Royal Audience

Among the many milestones in his diplomatic career, one memory stands above the rest.

Presenting his credentials to the late Queen Elizabeth II in October 2015 remains a defining moment. From travelling in the royal carriage to the audience at Buckingham Palace, the occasion left a lasting impression and remains one of the highlights of his distinguished diplomatic service.

Beyond Diplomacy

Away from official engagements, Ambassador Al-Tamimi enjoys reading, maintaining his fitness and walking through London's historic streets. It is perhaps a fitting reflection of both the city and the diplomat himself: appreciating tradition while looking confidently towards the future.