Najaf: Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani declared his unwavering commitment to Iraq’s development and reconstruction efforts, undeterred by external attempts to hinder progress. In a statement during an election rally in the holy city of Najaf, Al-Sudani emphasized the Iraqi government’s focus on tangible achievements and concrete steps to restore public confidence in the country’s democratic system and institutions.
According to National Iraqi News Agency, Al-Sudani highlighted the inception of the Reconstruction and Development Coalition as a platform not just for electoral purposes but to implement effective governance and seize opportunities for the Iraqi people. He underscored the government’s strategic approach, which has already begun to yield results, aligning with the guidance of the Supreme Religious Authority in Najaf to build a just and prosperous Iraq.
Al-Sudani announced the launch of fifteen service and engineering projects in Najaf, totaling eleven billion dinars, with additional projects worth forty billion dinars ready to commence. Significant initiatives include the Najaf-Kufa water project, the overland pilgrimage route, and the third Kufa bridge, with a collective investment of four hundred and fifty-four billion dinars.
Furthermore, nine additional infrastructure projects have been added to Najaf’s development plan, costing 310 billion dinars, targeting the rehabilitation of the Old City and various neighborhoods. Education and healthcare sectors have also seen improvements, with the completion of 62 new schools, renovation of 157 others, and the opening of Al-Hurriya Hospital and other specialized health institutions.
Al-Sudani detailed ongoing efforts in the energy sector, including the implementation of the Al-Haydariya power station, the Al-Abbasiya power substation, and enhancements to the electrical grid, with investments totaling several hundred million dollars. The oil refining and processing capabilities of Najaf are also being expanded, aiming for a capacity of 110,000 barrels per day.
He reiterated the commitment to transforming plans into realities, citing the Karbala-Najaf railway project as a testament to the coalition’s efforts. Additionally, Najaf has secured funding for projects accommodating pilgrims visiting holy shrines, alongside a host of service projects, including infrastructure improvements around the Imam Ali Shrine.
Al-Sudani concluded by affirming the government’s dedication to its development agenda, unfazed by detractors. A framework agreement with Turkey has been signed to address Iraq’s water crisis, ensuring water sustainability and supporting the upcoming winter agricultural plan.