Baghdad: Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani has emphasized the strategic importance of the Development Road project, highlighting its geopolitical, developmental, economic, and investment dimensions for Iraq.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, Al-Sudani chaired a special meeting on Wednesday to follow up on the progress of the Development Road project. The meeting was attended by the Minister of Transport, the Head of the Higher Commission for Coordination among Provinces, several general directors and advisors, as well as a representative from Oliver Wyman, the project’s consulting firm.

During the meeting, Al-Sudani stressed that the project is a vital pillar for Iraq’s economic and strategic advancement. He directed all relevant parties to complete their assigned tasks in order to finalize the first phase of the Development Road within the coming months.

He also instructed the Ministry of Planning to create a dedicated component within its plans to support preparations for the project and to ensure the provision of all necessary requirements.

The meeting addressed key challenges impacting the project’s progress, including route conflicts with archaeological sites and minefields, in addition to issues related to the acquisition of public and private lands. Attendees also reviewed updates on the Grand Faw Port project and discussed the financial and economic report prepared by the consulting firm Oliver Wyman.

Furthermore, the meeting explored the final route linking Iraq to Turkey. A ministerial committee was formed to determine the path and crossing point in coordination with the Kurdistan Region.