Baghdad: The Border Ports Authority announced on Tuesday the allocation of 16 billion dinars for the development of three border crossings, while noting the continued export of construction materials and sulfur to Syria.

According to Iraqi News Agency, the spokesman for the Border Ports Authority, Alaa al-Din al-Qaisi, stated that Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi has allocated 16 billion dinars to the Rabia, al-Walid, and Safwan border crossings during his visit to the Border Ports Authority. This allocation aims at implementing infrastructure projects and is part of efforts to strengthen relations with neighboring countries, which will contribute to reviving the Iraqi economy following the closure of the Strait of Hormuz.

Al-Qaisi highlighted that the Rabia and Al-Walid border crossings, which were opened last April, initially witnessed limited trade activity. However, trade has significantly increased following the closure of the Strait of Hormuz. He noted that trade between Iraq and Syria has now reached its highest levels.

Furthermore, Al-Qaisi explained that Iraq is exporting oil to Syria via tankers, with approximately 1,500 trucks departing daily and another 1,500 returning. This activity is providing employment for around 3,000 truck drivers and their families, and is positively impacting commercial activity along the route, benefiting shops, cafes, and other businesses.

He also mentioned the continued export of construction materials and sulfur to Syria, while Iraq imports vegetables and other goods in return.