Baghdad:Prime Minister Ali Falih Al-Zaidi led the twenty-fourth regular session of the Iraqi Council of Ministers on Tuesday evening, focusing on the country’s general situation and agenda items, resulting in several new decisions and directives.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, Al-Zaidi instructed Deputy Prime Ministers and ministers confirmed by Parliament to complete the cabinet lineup. They were urged to take an oath of honor before the Iraqi people, emphasizing constitutional commitment, protection of public interests, and avoidance of personal gain. The Prime Minister called for professional governance, setting aside partisan and sectarian loyalties to serve national interests.

The Council authorized the Ministry of Agriculture to open imports for all agricultural crops until December 31, 2026, to ensure food security. Additionally, customs duties on solar energy systems imported into Iraq have been eliminated to encourage clean energy adoption. The Ministry of Electricity’s Northern Region branch was authorized to sign a contract to supply 600 to 1000 megawatts of power.

In the health sector, the Council approved the release of Ministry of Health shipments of medicines and vaccines held at border crossings, deferring customs duties under specific conditions. The fourth amendment bill to the Medical and Health Professions Progression Law was also approved and referred to the Council of Representatives.

The Council also approved a bill to ratify a maritime transport agreement with Qatar, aimed at enhancing bilateral cooperation. For oil facilities, the Basra Oil Company is authorized to use formation water from the Dibdibba aquifer for specific operations until alternative sources are available. Additionally, the Ministry of Water Resources can invite international firms to design the second phase of a water security project involving the Shatt al-Arab barrage in Basra.