Baghdad: The Second Annual International Conference on Competition commenced today in Baghdad, organized by the Council for Competition Affairs and Anti-Monopoly in collaboration with the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research. The event features participation from representatives of ministries, government bodies, professional unions, the private sector, and a group of experts, academics, and international organizations focused on competition affairs.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, the Council's Chairman, Ahmed Younis Qasim, stated that the conference aligns with the Council's vision to promote fair competition as a key element of economic reform. He highlighted that fostering a culture of competition aids in supporting investment, developing markets, and achieving sustainable development.

Abdul-Hussein Al-Anbaki, representing the Prime Minister, reiterated the government's robust commitment to enforcing competition and anti-monopoly laws as part of its comprehensive reform agenda. He emphasized their significance in enhancing economic integrity and ensuring equal opportunities.

Additionally, Deputy Secretary-General of the Council of Ministers, Farhad Naama Allah Hussein, underscored the importance of institutional coordination between government entities and the private sector in implementing competitive policies. He stressed the Cabinet's support for the reform initiatives led by the Competition and Anti-Monopoly Council to establish a transparent and open economic environment.

Natalie Khaled, the Coordinator of the Competition and Consumer Protection Project at ESCWA, commended Iraq's efforts in constructing a modern institutional framework for competition. She noted the importance of regional cooperation in developing legal and regulatory frameworks that bolster national economies.

The conference serves as a significant platform for policymakers, researchers, and experts to explore challenges and opportunities in cultivating a fair competitive environment that supports Iraq's economic growth while reinforcing principles of transparency and sustainability.