Baghdad: Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani chaired the 25th regular session of the Council of Ministers, where significant decisions were made concerning the country’s economic and security landscape. The session included discussions on the general situation in Iraq and pivotal economic topics, as well as the approval of various agenda items.
According to National Iraqi News Agency, Al-Sudani addressed the session, highlighting the critical developments in the region due to the Zionist aggression against Iran. He condemned these actions, which he described as attempts to destabilize regional security and peace. Al-Sudani also praised national political entities and governmental bodies for their support of the government’s strategies in tackling these regional challenges.
Al-Sudani emphasized the importance of maintaining security and addressing any threats with determination. He reiterated the government’s commitment to prioritizing the welfare of the Iraqi people in its response to ongoing events. Additionally, he announced the allocation of two trillion dinars for ministerial investment projects and 1.4 trillion dinars for governorate funding to support service projects.
The session also saw the amendment of Resolution No. 23378 of 2023, focusing on the joint seawater treatment plant project. This amendment includes adjustments to the loan repayment period for the Oil Products Distribution Company, ensuring the Basra Oil Company can meet its financial obligations. The project was exempted from taxes and fees to facilitate its progress.
In the oil refining sector, the Council approved the first phase of the Najaf Refinery Development Project. A national team was established to oversee the project, with enhanced financial and administrative powers. The team will engage with manufacturing companies and manage the project financing from the Middle Refineries Company’s operating budget.
Further, the Council discussed and approved the referral of the West Qurna Field Electricity Generation and Distribution Project to the Chinese company CEEC at a discounted price, marking another step in Iraq’s energy sector development.