Sulaymaniyah: Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani emphasized that providing services and ensuring a decent living for Iraqis will not be politicized or tied to electoral agendas.
According to National Iraqi News Agency, al-Sudani made these remarks during his participation in the “Ninth Sulaymaniyah Forum,” organized by the American University in Sulaymaniyah, located in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq. In his address, he commended the efforts to host the forum in Sulaymaniyah Governorate, highlighting its development alongside other cities in the Kurdistan Region and across Iraq. He reiterated the government’s commitment to establishing a strong state and responsible governance, with an economy focused on diversity and renewal.
Al-Sudani stressed the need for bold and comprehensive reforms to establish stability, secure Iraq’s future, and strengthen the rule of law. He mentioned that collaboration with political partners and support from religious authorities would solidify these principles as core to national development. The government, he noted, has adopted the slogan “a government of services” to reflect its dedication to serving the Iraqi people.
He acknowledged the historical challenges faced by Iraqis, including oppression, dictatorship, economic sanctions, terrorism, and flawed financial policies. He explained that efforts are underway in every Iraqi city to improve services and urban development. Special attention is being given to youth empowerment, through initiatives that provide opportunities for skill development, entrepreneurship, and support for small projects. Al-Sudani highlighted the importance of empowering youth as a key strategy for future challenges through digital transformation and financial inclusion.
Al-Sudani described the progress in infrastructure across Iraq, noting improvements in roads, bridges, and municipal services. He reported significant advancements in water and sewage network coverage, which has doubled compared to three years ago. Major residential projects and serviced lands have been initiated, contributing to healthy urban living. He also noted a reduction in stalled projects across various sectors, including health and education.
The government has launched projects to modernize the electricity grid, develop renewable energy sources, and enhance the oil sector. Al-Sudani stated that gas flaring is being reduced, with a goal to eliminate it by 2028. He emphasized that political competition should focus on service provision and problem-solving rather than defamation and misinformation.
Al-Sudani asserted that the government is proactive in securing alternatives and ensuring the provision of basic services. Reforms in the banking sector are underway to improve conditions for the private sector and attract foreign investment. The true value of reform, he noted, lies in reaching the poor and marginalized, with efforts to expand social protection and diversify the economy beyond oil.
He cited increased customs revenues and a decline in the annual inflation rate as indicators of economic progress. Al-Sudani reaffirmed Iraq’s neutral stance in regional conflicts and its principled positions on international issues, including support for Palestine and opposition to Zionist aggression.
Finally, he outlined Iraq’s commitment to addressing climate change, global market fluctuations, and food security challenges. Iraq is advancing in agriculture to ensure food security and self-sufficiency and is poised to be a reliable partner in regional stability.