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UK - Iraq Partnership and Cooperation Agreement: Extension to Jersey

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A decision made 7 February 2025:

Decision Reference:  MD-ER-2025-93

Public

Subject: The Extension of the UK-Iraq Partnership and Cooperation Agreement

 

Report Title: The Extension of the UK-Iraq Partnership and Cooperation Agreement

Public

Decision(s):

The Minister for External Relations decided to present a report on the proposed extension of the United Kingdom (UK)-Iraq Partnership and Cooperation Agreement (PCA) to Jersey to the States Assembly.

Reason for Decision(s):

The UK-Iraq PCA is one of several post-Brexit continuity agreements that aim to replicate the arrangements that the UK had with other countries whilst within the European Union. As such, the Agreement does not include any new obligations for Jersey beyond existing trading arrangements or our membership of the World Trade Organisation (WTO).    The Agreement does, however, afford Iraq the same minimum rights and obligations as members of the WTO, of which Iraq is not a member. Additionally, the Agreement establishes formal dialogues between the UK and Iraq aimed at promoting positive developments, particularly in respect to political stability, human rights, development and women’s empowerment. These dialogues seek to promote and protect human rights locally, acknowledging that Iraq is in a challenging stage in its development and aiming to encourage gradual improvement over time through economic and diplomatic incentives.    Although it has minimal implications for Jersey, the UK-Iraq PCA is important given rising tensions in the Middle East surrounding Israel and Iran. It is important that the UK works constructively with Iraq to promote geopolitical stability and sustainable development.  The LAP continues to work to finalise its proposal for an appropriate legislative process to govern approvals for international agreements, in line with P.6/2023. The Minister for External Relations wanted to ensure Members are briefed and sighted on the background to, and detail of, the proposed extension of the UK-Iraq PCA to Jersey, while this work is ongoing.

Resource Implications: There are no financial or staffing implications arising from this decision.

 

Action Required: The Greffier of the States is requested to arrange for the report to be presented to the States.

Signature:

 

 

Signed By: Minister for External Relations

Date Signed:

 

 

Date of Decision (If different from Date Signed):

 

 

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