British Ambassador envisions Mosul’s recovery and Iraq’s future as key energy hub

Despite the ongoing challenges since the liberation from terrorism, British Ambassador Stephen Hitchen expressed “optimism” on Sunday regarding Mosul and Iraq’s future, anticipating that Iraq will emerge as a major electricity provider and trade hub in the Middle East.

The Ambassador referred to Mosul as a “miniature Iraq, representing challenges, tolerance, and coexistence” during a press conference held inside the University of Mosul. He said that stability has improved in the country and that the past two years have been better than previous ones.

Hitchen lamented “regret over the migration of many Christians due to recent events,” stating that “Mosul needs economic recovery to get back on track.”

“Mosul, a city of ancient civilization and history, deserves to be saved,” he emphasized, confirming a federal and Nineveh Governorate plan to restore affected areas.

Hitchen framed a future vision for Iraq where, by 2040, the nation could accomplish freedom while tending to difficulties like populace development and oil costs. In addition, the development road project might see Iraq emerge as a major Middle Eastern trade hub, regain its intellectual prominence in the Arab world, and become a major electricity supplier.

The Ambassador indicated that negotiations will take place once the International Coalition’s presence in Iraq ends.

He mentioned “complexities and agendas require time to resolve,” the impact of regional issues on Iraq, and “external interference in its politics,” with the UK taking a diplomatic stance on the matter, when discussing the level of security in Iraq and the situation in the region.

In addition, the Ambassador stated that “Nineveh Governorate’s social diversity requires a comprehensive plan to ensure safety and comfort for everyone, away from militia influence in the region,” and that displaced Yazidis must return to Sinjar to focus on reconstruction.

Hitchen concluded by stressing the necessity of resolving the situation in order to stabilize the region and pointing out that Sinjar’s small size conceals intricate local and regional agendas that prevent residents from returning.