Baghdad:During the latest session of the Cabinet, Prime Minister Ali Faleh Al-Zaidi led discussions that resulted in several significant decisions, including the approval of the Popular Mobilization Forces Bill. The session focused on the country’s general situation, various agenda items, and necessary decisions.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, the Cabinet has approved the Popular Mobilization Forces Bill as part of efforts to regulate the administrative framework of security institutions. This decision acknowledges the sacrifices made by members of the Popular Mobilization Commission. The bill will now be referred to the Council of Representatives for a vote in line with constitutional provisions.

The Cabinet also approved the establishment of the Internal Security Forces Healthcare Department. This bill has been vetted by the State Council and will be sent to the Council of Representatives. Similarly, the bill for creating the Institute of Urban and Regional Planning for Postgraduate Studies received approval and will be referred to the Council.

In efforts to provide housing, the Cabinet approved the sale of specific plots of land in Nineveh Governorate to University of Mosul staff. This sale is exempt from public auction procedures, and the university must change the land’s zoning classification before the sale to its employees, ensuring compliance with the law and determining its market value.

For the New Sadr City project, the Cabinet approved a contract for the Baghdad Municipality and the National Center for Engineering Consultancy. This agreement involves supervision and consulting services for infrastructure and road development in an 11,000-unit residential zone.

The Cabinet also adjusted budget allocations for the Ministry of Construction, Housing, Municipalities, and Public Works, focusing on the General Directorate of Sewerage.

To combat corruption and recover funds, a committee chaired by the Ministry of Finance will coordinate with Jordan to recover Iraqi funds and settle debts under Paris Club terms, while protecting Iraq’s legal rights.

The Council of Ministers decided to dissolve a previously established committee and tasked the Ministry of Foreign Affairs with collaborating with the US Department of the Treasury. This collaboration aims to gather information about individuals and companies under sanctions, exercising due diligence.

Finally, to support local industry, the export of copper, aluminum, lead, and iron alloys is banned due to their necessity in local manufacturing. Trading these metals is restricted to within Iraq.