Baghdad: Today’s newspapers highlight Prime Minister Ali Faleh al-Zaidi’s firm stance against corruption within his government, alongside his efforts to fortify economic relations with Turkey. The reports spotlight Al-Zaidi’s strategic initiatives following his recent visit to Washington and upcoming plans in Turkey.
According to National Iraqi News Agency, during a Cabinet session chaired by Al-Zaidi, a significant emphasis was placed on rooting out corruption, with directives to identify and dismiss undersecretaries or director generals suspected of corrupt activities. The Prime Minister’s Media Office stated that government ministers will be held accountable should any corrupt individuals remain in their roles. Additionally, the Cabinet approved a budget of 52.5 billion dinars to facilitate services for pilgrims during the Arba’een pilgrimage and authorized the State Oil Marketing Company (SOMO) to import gas oil for the Ministry of Electricity.
Al-Sabah, an Iraqi Media Network publication, reported that Al-Zaidi’s session included discussions on the Coordination Framework’s support for the government’s anti-corruption measures. Framework leaders pledged not to shield any corrupt individuals, reinforcing the government’s commitment to integrity.
Meanwhile, Al-Zawraa, published by the Iraqi Journalists Syndicate, highlighted Al-Zaidi’s meeting with Turkey’s Minister of Transport and Infrastructure, Abdulkadir Uraloglu. The discussions focused on enhancing economic and investment cooperation between Iraq and Turkey. Al-Zaidi’s forthcoming visit to Turkey aims to solidify these ties with the signing of several memoranda of understanding. Discussions also covered the Development Road project, a strategic initiative for economic integration, with Turkey expressing keen interest in its implementation.
Additionally, Al-Zawraa detailed a meeting led by Speaker of Parliament Haibat Al-Halbousi, focusing on non-oil revenues and customs performance, with an emphasis on implementing the ASYCUDA system to unify customs tariffs and enhance financial returns.
Al-Zaman newspaper reported the Coordination Framework’s renewed commitment to tackling corruption, underscoring its support for Al-Zaidi’s recent U.S. visit outcomes. The Framework emphasized continued backing for anti-corruption efforts and assured no political cover for those proven guilty by judicial authorities. The discussions also explored enhancing political stability, improving services, and addressing economic challenges.