Lord Michael Ashcroft, Honorary Chairman of the International Democracy Union, Visits the Kurdistan Region

Erbil, 27 September 2026 — Lord Michael Ashcroft KCMG PC, a prominent British businessman, philanthropist, author, political pollster and international political figure, arrived in Erbil today for a visit to the Kurdistan Region from 27–30 September, during which he will hold a series of meetings with senior political and governmental leaders.

Upon his arrival at Erbil International Airport, Lord Ashcroft and his accompanying delegation were received by senior members of the Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP) and representatives of the KDP Foreign Relations Office.

Lord Ashcroft is Honorary Chairman of the International Democracy Union (IDU), a global alliance bringing together centre-right political parties from around the world. He previously served as Treasurer and Deputy Chairman of the UK Conservative Party and has remained active internationally through political research, polling, philanthropy and engagement with democratic political parties.

During his visit, Lord Ashcroft is expected to meet senior leaders of the Kurdistan Region, the Kurdistan Regional Government and the Kurdistan Democratic Party, as well as political, religious and civil-society representatives.

The visit will provide Lord Ashcroft and his delegation with an opportunity to gain a first-hand understanding of the latest political, economic and security developments in the Kurdistan Region and Iraq, while exchanging views on regional developments, democratic cooperation, economic opportunities and the Kurdistan Region’s international relations.

The programme will also highlight the Kurdistan Region’s economic potential, including opportunities in investment, agriculture, urban development and private-sector cooperation, alongside its political and strategic role within Iraq and the wider Middle East.

Lord Ashcroft’s visit reflects continuing engagement between the Kurdistan Region and influential international political networks and provides an opportunity to strengthen dialogue and develop further avenues for political, economic and institutional cooperation.