Baghdad: The Ministry of Culture announced on Monday plans to rehabilitate five archaeological sites in each governorate and transform them into tourist destinations.

According to Iraqi News Agency, the Deputy Minister of Culture, Tourism, and Antiquities, Qasim Al-Sudani, emphasized that developing the tourism sector is a national issue involving multiple institutions, including the Ministries of Transport and Health, and local governments. He noted that the integration of these systems is vital for the successful development of tourism in Iraq.

Al-Sudani highlighted the Ministry’s commitment to activating tourism activities and enhancing the quality of tourism services across the country. He pointed out that the current security stability in Iraq serves as an attractive factor for international tourists, with groups already visiting areas like the marshes.

The Ministry has implemented measures to streamline visa procedures, aiming to revitalize tourism. Al-Sudani noted that the tourism map of Iraq has become more accessible and clearer for tourists. There are strategic plans to convert several archaeological sites into tourist destinations, further enriching Iraq’s tourism offerings.

He further detailed that the initiative includes developing five archaeological sites in each governorate, focusing on both religious and archaeological tourism sectors. This development is central to the Ministry’s plans and aims to enhance Iraq’s cultural and historical appeal, requiring adequate resources to achieve these goals.