Baghdad: Iraqi government spokesperson Haider Al-Aboudi announced on Monday that the Prime Minister has rejected a proposal to retain International Coalition forces in Iraq beyond September 30. The announcement comes as the Iraqi government prepares to vote on the 2027 federal budget next September.
According to Iraqi News Agency, Al-Aboudi, during a press conference, emphasized that the 2027 budget will introduce a new approach, focusing on programs and performance, and will emphasize prudent spending of public funds. He assured that the Council of Ministers is set to vote on the budget, which aligns with Iraq’s economic identity.
Furthermore, Al-Aboudi highlighted ongoing government efforts to regularize contract and daily-wage workers and assess the financial implications. On land allocation, he revealed that the Council of Ministers is poised to launch the distribution of one million plots of land to citizens, with measures being taken to address encroachments under the Prime Minister’s Office’s purview.
He reiterated the government’s commitment to standardizing weapons control, ensuring legal governance in societal affairs. Al-Aboudi also mentioned that dialogues with factions are progressing smoothly and are expected to conclude by September 30, marking a phase of cooperation and mutual interest.
Rejecting the proposal to extend the presence of International Coalition forces, Al-Aboudi clarified that Iraq remains vigilant of regional dynamics and is determined to stay out of conflicts. He also mentioned the Prime Minister’s forthcoming European tour to Paris and Berlin in early September, where security matters will be discussed.
Touching upon anti-corruption efforts, Al-Aboudi stated that the government is actively pursuing corruption suspects and has made significant progress in financial recoveries compared to previous years. Finally, on economic matters, he remarked on the government’s initiatives to diversify revenue sources, with Iraqi oil exports consistently surpassing two million barrels per day.