Baghdad: Today's newspapers focused on Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani's announcement that Iraq will begin exporting petroleum derivatives and emphasized the importance of submitting the budget to Parliament for approval. According to National Iraqi News Agency, Prime Minister al-Sudani launched the Diwaniyah Refinery Expansion Project, which aims to achieve self-sufficiency in petroleum derivatives and open new export markets. This project will add refining units with a capacity of 70,000 barrels per day, increasing the total refining capacity to 90,000 barrels per day. This initiative is part of Iraq's national plan to convert 40% of crude oil produced into refining and conversion industries to meet domestic needs and support future exports. Al-Sudani stated that the project is crucial for Iraq's efforts to achieve self-sufficiency in petroleum products and reduce reliance on imports. The completion of refinery expansion projects in Maysan, Diwaniyah, and Najaf is expected to enhance Iraq's export capabilities. In a related event, al-Sudani chaired a meeting of the Supreme Council for Women's Affairs, discussing strategies to support and empower women in various sectors. The meeting highlighted the government's commitment to enhancing women's roles in education, health, housing, and policymaking, as well as combating poverty. The council approved directives for ministries and governorates to facilitate the establishment of women-owned companies. Al-Zawraa newspaper, affiliated with the Journalists Syndicate, reported on the budget developments, citing economic expert Safwan Qusay who urged the government to send the budget tables to Parliament for approval. Qusay warned that delays could create issues for the next government post-elections. He noted that fluctuating oil prices and regional conflicts have complicated budget estimates, but emphasized the need for timely approval to ensure legal spending in 2025. Qusay also highlighted the importance of completing existing projects and launching new on es within the constraints of domestic loans. He stressed that failure to approve the budget schedules would hinder the next government's ability to operate without a legal financial framework. Furthermore, Al-Zaman newspaper reported on the Iraqi team's success at the 2025 International Chemistry Olympiad in Dubai, where four students advanced to the semi-finals amidst global competition. An official accompanying the team praised their performance and emphasized the importance of supporting young Iraqi talent in international forums. In addition, the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research announced the launch of an integrated electronic platform consisting of 120 modern systems. Ministry spokesperson Haider Al-Aboudi explained that this digital transformation aims to enhance the university environment and provide comprehensive services to students and graduates, ensuring efficient academic and administrative processes. The platform is part of a strategic national effort to improve institutiona l performance in line with international standards.
