Baghdad: The General Company for Carbon Economics recently hosted a delegation from the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) to explore financing opportunities for green transformation projects in Iraq. The meeting was attended by Haider Qasim Al-Daraji, Director General of the General Company for Carbon Economics, and Ms. Katarina Bj¶rlin Hansen, Head of the EBRD's office in Iraq.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, the discussions centered on potential collaborations to support projects aimed at reducing gas emissions, developing renewable energy sources, and enhancing energy efficiency. The dialogue also addressed ways to facilitate the Iraqi private sector's access to green financing tools offered by the EBRD.

Al-Daraji highlighted the company's efforts to establish a comprehensive national system for carbon markets and initiate projects that can generate carbon credits in line with international standards. These initiatives are expected to attract significant investments and help Iraq achieve its sustainable development goals and climate commitments.

The meeting also underscored the importance of providing technical support and capacity building for Iraqi companies transitioning to a green economy. The implementation of Measuring, Reporting, and Verification (MRV) systems was discussed as a means to strengthen their ability to access climate finance and global carbon markets.

Ms. Katarina Bj¶rlin Hansen expressed the EBRD's eagerness to expand its cooperation with Iraqi entities to support green transition initiatives. She affirmed the Bank's readiness to finance projects that promise sustainable economic and environmental outcomes and encourage private sector involvement in low-emission development.

In conclusion, both parties agreed to maintain technical coordination and examine several priority initiatives and projects. This ongoing collaboration aims to expedite Iraq's transition to a green economy and foster new cooperation opportunities with the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development in climate finance, clean energy, and sustainable investment.