Baghdad: The Minister of Environment emphasizes the importance of strengthening international efforts to support Iraq in facing climate challenges and implementing its national commitments. Iraqi Minister of Environment, Sarwa Abdul Wahid, highlighted the crucial need for enhanced cooperation with international and UN bodies. She stressed that such collaboration is essential to ensure Iraq receives the necessary support to address significant climate challenges, implement mitigation and adaptation projects, and reinforce the nation’s environmental commitments.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, these remarks came during Abdul Wahid’s leadership of the meeting of the Standing National Committee on Climate Change. She pointed out that Iraq is among the countries most severely impacted by climate change, which directly threatens its water, food, and environmental security. The situation underscores the urgency of accelerating the implementation of national commitments and enhancing coordination among relevant stakeholders.

The committee’s discussions focused on the execution pathways for Iraq’s Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs), strategies for strengthening the response to climate challenges, and monitoring national-level climate developments. Additionally, the committee addressed Iraq’s preparations for the 31st Conference of the Parties (COP31), emphasizing the importance of ensuring Iraq’s effective participation.

The minister reiterated that climate change has moved beyond being a mere research issue, now presenting increasing challenges to development and stability. She called for the unification of national efforts, integration of roles, and acceleration of the Nationally Determined Contributions document’s implementation. Strengthening Iraq’s capacity to adapt to climate change impacts is essential, aligning with its international commitments and development priorities.