Baghdad: Prime Minister Ali Faleh Al-Zaidi has made a decisive statement regarding the ongoing battle against corruption in Iraq, asserting that individuals involved in such activities have no alternative but to return the misappropriated funds. In an interview with Al Arabiya, which was followed by the Iraqi News Agency INA, Al-Zaidi emphasized that the government’s approach to corruption cases is non-discriminatory and not influenced by sectarian or ethnic affiliations.
According to Iraqi News Agency, Al-Zaidi reiterated the government’s commitment to pursuing those accused of corruption despite facing backlash from those affected by these legal measures. He stated unequivocally that there are no exceptions in the efforts to protect public funds and emphasized the imperative for those involved to return the stolen assets to the Iraqi people.
Al-Zaidi further highlighted the robust cooperation between the government and the judiciary, aimed at recovering assets and safeguarding the rights of the Iraqi populace. He mentioned ongoing dialogues with various factions, indicating a transition towards political and social activities, with arms being confined to the state’s official institutions, such as the Armed Forces and security agencies, once the designated timeframe concludes.
The prime minister addressed the delay in U.S. dollar shipments, attributing it to regional disruptions and air traffic issues. With conditions now stabilizing, he confirmed the resumption of cash shipments and announced plans for political cooperation and economic partnership frameworks between Iraq and the United States.
Al-Zaidi also expressed efforts to enhance understanding between the United States and Iran and outlined Iraq’s desire for an economic partnership with Saudi Arabia, noting the mutual strategic depth each nation represents for the other. Additionally, he affirmed Iraq’s commitment as a founding member of OPEC, seeking a fair production quota and resolving outstanding issues with the Kurdistan Regional Government, emphasizing a proactive approach to problem-solving.