Iraqi prime minister Nouri al-Maliki has urged BP to move ahead with investment to help the country rebuild its infrastructure and economy.

During a meeting with a high-level delegation from the British oil giant, Mr al-Maliki pressed the company to expedite exploration and production operations in the country to promote economic stability.

The Iraqi oil ministry negotiated a landmark services contract with BP and China National Petroleum Corp to develop fields in the country in July and has also this month announced that a second bidding round will commence by the end of the year.

Mr al-Maliki told the delegation: "The Iraqi government is determined to develop relations with Britain in all levels and in various domains. Challenges will not affect us and will not weaken our determination to rebuild Iraq."

The national government will be able to use revenues from the sale of its vast oil reserves to invest in infrastructure, healthcare and other services such as training and development programmes, to ensure Iraqi citizens can benefit directly from the rebuilding of the country's oil and gas industry.

Global Education and Training Event for Oil and Gas: Getenergy for Iraq