Baghdad: Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani emphasized the critical role of tribes in addressing significant challenges, particularly terrorism, which he noted is disconnected from any specific group or tribe. His remarks came during a meeting with sheikhs and notables from the tribes of Al-Radwaniyah, Abu Ghraib, and Al-Yusufiyah, alongside former MP Mohammed Al-Khalidi and various academics and intellectuals.
According to National Iraqi News Agency, Al-Sudani affirmed the tribes’ contribution to promoting solidarity, coexistence, and harmony among the Iraqi people, which is vital for preserving the political system, process, and democratic experience. The Prime Minister highlighted the government’s achievements since its inception, including establishing institutional foundations and delivering essential services. Notably, the government has completed numerous projects, lowered unemployment, and created over 1,150,000 private-sector job opportunities, securing full rights for young workers akin to public sector employees through the Retirement and Social Security Law.
During the discussion, Al-Sudani outlined the government’s program priorities, such as job creation, service enhancement, poverty reduction, corruption eradication, and economic reform implementation. He remarked on the priority given to service provision, whether by reviving stalled projects or initiating new ones nationwide. The government has significantly reduced poverty and extended cash assistance and food rations to 900,000 beneficiaries.
Al-Sudani further detailed the comprehensive economic reforms underway, citing the strategic completion of the FCC/Fused Catalyst Crushing Unit project at the Shuaiba refinery, positioning Iraq as self-sufficient in petroleum products for the first time. This achievement eliminates the annual 6 trillion dinar import expenditure.
The Prime Minister emphasized the importance of active participation in the upcoming parliamentary elections, describing it as a constitutional right crucial for shaping Iraq’s future. He urged citizens to engage in the elections with awareness and to choose representatives who genuinely support nation-building efforts. Al-Sudani cautioned against misinformation campaigns aimed at discouraging electoral participation and stressed the need for electoral competition based on substantive programs and projects, steering clear of divisive rhetoric.
He also reassured that Iraq’s balanced foreign policy has shielded the nation from regional conflicts, maintaining its security and stability. Al-Sudani reiterated Iraq’s steadfast position on the Palestinian issue while prioritizing national interests.