Baghdad: Newspapers in Baghdad have highlighted the commencement of Prime Minister Ali Faleh al-Zaidi’s European tour, focusing on the political and economic dimensions of his visits to France and Germany. According to National Iraqi News Agency, Al-Zawraa, a publication of the Iraqi Journalists Syndicate, reported that Prime Minister Al-Zaidi embarked on his European journey on Sunday, leading a large government delegation. The tour began in Paris, where he is set to engage in discussions with French President Emmanuel Macron, aimed at enhancing bilateral relations and signing agreements in sectors such as investment, energy, and infrastructure.
The government spokesperson, Haider al-Aboudi, noted that after Paris, Prime Minister Al-Zaidi will proceed to Berlin to further discussions, aiming to expand Iraq’s strategic partnerships and translate its international relations into opportunities that bolster the economy and development. Al-Sabah, a newspaper of the Iraqi Media Network, reported that the visit is drawing significant attention, backed by official and parliamentary support. The tour seeks to attract international companies and localize modern technology, with agreements in energy, investment, and infrastructure topping the agenda.
Al-Sabah emphasized that the visit is a strategic move to position Iraq as a key economic partner in Europe. Memoranda of understanding will be signed in various sectors, including technology and healthcare, while also expanding security and military cooperation with France and Germany. The Prime Minister expressed before his departure that the tour aims to build balanced relations with EU countries, supporting economic development and enhancing the investment environment.
In a separate report, Al-Zaman newspaper addressed Iraq’s electricity production challenges. The Ministry of Electricity disclosed that Iraq’s energy demand peaks at 60,000 megawatts, while production currently stands at 24,000 megawatts. Ministry spokesperson Ahmed Jiyad stated that Baghdad and other provinces receive national electricity for about 12 hours daily, with fuel prices affecting supply.
Jiyad explained that electricity from the Kurdistan Region is reinforcing the national grid, adding 1,400 megawatts, while 600 megawatts are secured through a connection with Turkey. The regional interconnection with Kuwait is nearing completion, with only two towers remaining on the Iraqi side. Discussions on a high-voltage line with Saudi Arabia have concluded, awaiting a visit from Iraqi officials to finalize contracts, which will take 24 months to implement.