Baghdad: Today, newspapers in Baghdad highlighted the inauguration of essential projects in Najaf by Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani, alongside the International Monetary Fund’s (IMF) caution regarding a potential slowdown in Iraq’s economic growth.
According to National Iraqi News Agency, these developments come amid ongoing efforts to address disputes between the federal government and the Kurdistan Region.
Al-Sabah newspaper, published by the Iraqi Media Network, emphasized in its editorial the importance of services and law enforcement as fundamental pillars of state strength. It noted that since the formation of Al-Sudani’s government, significant progress has been made in improving the service sector, demonstrated by recent infrastructure developments across the capital and governorates. In Najaf, the Prime Minister inaugurated several projects, including the Abbasiya transformer station, the expansion of the Najaf refinery, and phases of wastewater treatment plant projects. Al-Sudani stressed that state presence is not only about service provision but also about enforcing the law and combating corruption.
Al-Zaman newspaper reported on the IMF’s warning concerning Iraq’s economic outlook, citing challenges such as financing difficulties, weak public investment, and rising sovereign debt risks. The IMF’s statement, following Article IV consultations in Washington, highlighted the need for fiscal reforms to address high public spending and declining oil prices. Recommendations included a comprehensive review of public spending, increased non-oil revenues, and reforms to the wage and pension system. Additionally, the IMF underscored the importance of capital spending on infrastructure and energy sector modernization.
Al-Zawraa newspaper covered the efforts to settle disputes between the federal government and the Kurdistan Region, marked by National Security Advisor Qasim al-Araji’s visit to Erbil. Discussions with Kurdistan Democratic Party President Masoud Barzani focused on domestic and regional cooperation, particularly in implementing a joint security agreement with Iran. Both sides expressed a commitment to resolving issues in line with the constitution, aiming to strengthen political ties and mutual understanding. Meetings with other regional leaders further stressed the need for enhanced cooperation to maintain security and stability, alongside resolving financial and rights-related issues constitutionally.