Basra: Basra Deputy Governor Zaid Al-Amara met with Dr. Hanaa Ismail Ibrahim, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Planning and head of the committee tasked with preparing the National Strategy for Supporting Minorities in Iraq, to discuss the draft of the comprehensive national development strategy for supporting minorities.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, the meeting, also attended by Aqeel Al-Fariji, head of the security committee in the Basra Provincial Council, focused on mechanisms for drafting the strategy to enhance equality and social justice. Dr. Hanaa Ismail Ibrahim explained that the committee, formed by the Prime Minister’s order, is responsible for crafting a strategy that aligns with state policies and laws. The strategy is being developed with stakeholder input to address challenges and devise solutions that ensure justice and equality of rights.

The committee has begun consulting with religious leaders from various communities to understand their needs and challenges. This engagement aims to incorporate valuable suggestions and observations to enhance the strategy’s effectiveness.

The Basra Deputy Governor reiterated the local government’s commitment to supporting minorities in the province, pledging full cooperation with the ministerial committee, including sharing data on minority representatives. The Deputy Governor also mentioned that minorities are part of the land allocation program to encourage settlement and return to their areas, and emphasized the government’s efforts to secure their employment rights in both the public and private sectors, recognizing minorities as a vital part of Basra society.