Baghdad: Undersecretary of the Ministry of Culture, Qasim Al-Sudani, has been appointed to manage the affairs of the Ministry of Culture, Tourism, and Antiquities, following directives from Prime Minister Ali Falih Al-Zaidi. Acting Minister Sarwa Abdul Wahid has tasked Al-Sudani with this responsibility until the appointment of a new minister.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, the decision was confirmed during a meeting between Abdul Wahid and Al-Sudani on Monday. The focus of the discussion was on maintaining seamless institutional operations and ensuring the timely execution of tasks related to the culture, tourism, and antiquities sectors.

Al-Sudani’s role aligns with the Prime Minister’s broader directive that undersecretaries manage their respective ministries in the absence of appointed ministers. This measure is intended to maintain the continuity of government functions and prevent any disruption to national interests.

Al-Sudani expressed gratitude towards the acting minister for her trust and support. He emphasized his commitment to enhancing the ministry’s performance and ensuring the smooth execution of its duties in the forthcoming period.

The Prime Minister’s directive empowers undersecretaries to oversee ministry affairs, excluding responsibilities that require a minister’s exclusive authority. This initiative aims to expedite government processes and avert delays in serving the state’s and citizens’ interests.