After decades of conflict and the trauma of occupation, Iraq faces an uncertain future. However, many Iraqis feel their country is now more secure than it was in the dark days of 2006/2007. So are there signs for optimism?

As part of our commitment to building trust and engagement within and between countries we will be hosting a panel discussion entitled Has Iraq Turned a Corner?.

The event will consider questions such as, will the next few years see increased security, stability and prosperity for its citizens? Will other countries and influences act as a destabilising force? Will the country regain a leading role in the region and re-emerge as a global player?

Panellists will include Maysoon Al Damluji, former Iraqi Deputy Minister of Culture and women's rights campaigner, journalists Ghaith Abdul-Ahad, Jonathan Steele, Richard Downes, Khalil Al Mosawi, Saad Eskander, Director of the National Library of Iraq and Rob Edwards, Herald journalist who will be chairing the discussion.

They will explore where Iraq finds itself now, its future prospects and in particular the role cultural relations can play in supporting its re-emergence.

Has Iraq Turned a Corner? is part of the Reel Iraq Festival and will take place at the Roxy Art House, 3 Roxburgh Pl, Edinburgh on Monday 18 May 2009 at 6 - 8pm.

The event is free but places are limited. To reserve a seat please email iraqpanel@britishcouncil.org and include your name and a contact telephone number.