Baghdad:The Council of Foreign Ministers of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) convened in Baghdad, where Iraqi Prime Minister Ali Faleh al-Zaidi announced a strategic initiative aimed at enhancing regional connectivity and economic integration. The event, attended by representatives from 55 countries and 40 international organizations, focused on themes of dialogue and solidarity as essential components for peace and sustainable development.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, Prime Minister al-Zaidi’s initiative seeks to interlink energy networks, railways, transport infrastructures, and digital communications, while promoting digital payment systems and commercial platforms. The plan also emphasizes free trade, the protection of trade routes, and the facilitation of transport through international corridors.

Al-Zaidi reaffirmed Iraq’s commitment to the Palestinian cause and met with Turkey’s foreign minister to discuss water issues and the Development Road project. Concurrently, President Nizar Amedi engaged in discussions on climate challenges and regional cooperation with international officials, including OIC Secretary-General Ismail Ould Cheikh Ahmed and UN Deputy Secretary-General Amina Mohammed.

Meanwhile, in Damascus, the Arab Journalists Union conducted a meeting of its Permanent Freedoms Committee, focusing on press freedom across Arab countries. The meeting aimed to launch the union’s annual report, with discussions led by Arab Journalists Union President Muayyad al-Lami, who advocated for laws protecting press freedom and reviewing restrictive legislation.

Al-Lami highlighted improvements in journalist safety in Iraq, attributing this to political stability and supportive legislation. The meeting also underscored the importance of supporting Syrian journalists and the development of new legislation to safeguard their rights.