Basra: Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani confirmed the commencement of practical steps to implement the strategic project for seawater desalination in Basra, alongside the adoption of firm measures against violations. A statement by the Prime Minister’s Office stated that Al-Sudani chaired an expanded meeting at the Basra Governorate Diwan to address the water scarcity problem in the governorate.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, the meeting included the Ministers of Water Resources, Reconstruction, and Agriculture, as well as other key officials and security commanders. Discussions focused on the challenges of water scarcity, necessary solutions to the water crisis, increasing salinity levels, and their impact on drinking water availability. Governors from Basra, Maysan, and Dhi Qar presented briefings on the water problems in their regions and proposed immediate and rapid solutions.

Al-Sudani highlighted the chronic nature of water scarcity, which recurs every season due to low rainfall affecting water reserves, primarily sourced from neighboring Turkey. He stressed the importance of cooperation and collective efforts to address the crisis. Firm measures against water quotas violations and unauthorized activities on river banks were also emphasized.

The Prime Minister elaborated on a strategic agreement with Turkey regarding water management, noting Iraq’s reliance on Turkey for 90% of its water resources. The agreement involves transferring successful water management practices from Turkey to Iraq. The seawater desalination project, described as a strategic solution, has been transferred to Basra Governorate for implementation using modern technology. The Council of Ministers has approved the project, allowing the governor to finalize a contract with the implementing company.