Baghdad: The Council of Ministers, led by Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani, convened for its twenty-fourth regular Cabinet session to address significant issues, including begging, debt relief, and infrastructure development across various governorates. The session focused on evaluating the general situation in the country and advancing the government’s program objectives.
According to National Iraqi News Agency, the session resulted in several key decisions. A vital amendment was made to Clause (Fourth) of Resolution No. (23150 of 2023) concerning the Solidarity Fund for Border Crossing Workers. This amendment mandates the Ministry of Finance to allocate an annual lump sum to the Border Crossings Authority for the maintenance and operation of sonar devices, crucial for preventing smuggling and monitoring goods at border crossings.
Additionally, the Council decided to forgive debts owed by Basra Governorate linked to the revenues and storage fees of the General Company for Iraqi Ports, specifically regarding the seizure of six ambulances. In a move to benefit retirees, the Council also approved the sale of twelve houses in Maysan Governorate, owned by the Ministry of Trade/General Company for Grain Processing, to retired employees residing in them.
The establishment of a storage city in Iraq was another significant agenda item. The Council approved a recommendation from the Ministerial Council for Social Services to provide land for an integrated storage city, complete with complementary service activities, around the ring road. Government agencies are tasked with completing the land allocation procedures.
In support of youth development, Cabinet Resolution No. 23465 of 2023 was sanctioned, reducing registration fees for emerging youth companies by the Ministry of Trade. This resolution stipulates that these companies’ employees must be linked to the Social Security Fund. The Communications and Media Commission has also been directed to approve the National Strategy to Eliminate Digital Illiteracy and to establish digital homes in the governorates of Baghdad, Basra, Nineveh, and Karbala.
To combat begging, a national campaign was approved, with the Ministry of Interior and the Iraqi National Security Service leading its implementation in coordination with relevant authorities. Additionally, the Council authorized the replacement of a camera surveillance system with drones from the Military Industrialization Authority to better monitor and safeguard electrical energy transmission.
Lastly, the Council approved the draft Technical Regulations System, a document establishing product characteristics and associated production methods.