Baghdad: In a significant move to boost Iraq’s strategic economic interests, Prime Minister Ali Faleh al-Zaidi has directed the activation of a law rewarding whistleblowers and expedited the implementation of a crucial oil pipeline project. The initiatives, aimed at enhancing Iraq’s export capacities and curbing corruption, were highlighted in recent reports by local newspapers.
According to National Iraqi News Agency, Prime Minister Al-Zaidi instructed the fast-tracking of the strategic oil pipeline project connecting Basra to Haditha and Fishkhabur, as well as Haditha to Banias. These pipelines are expected to diversify Iraq’s oil export routes and enhance its export capacity, serving the country’s economic and developmental interests. Al-Zaidi, during a joint meeting with the Minister of Oil, senior ministry officials, and representatives of involved companies, reviewed the project’s technical and economic details, emphasizing its long-term significance.
The Prime Minister’s Media Office stated that Al-Zaidi urged the Ministry of Oil to provide optimal conditions for the project’s implementing companies, ensuring completion according to the highest standards. The focus on this project underscores its pivotal role in Iraq’s strategic economic framework.
In parallel, Al-Zaidi has focused on reinforcing anti-corruption efforts by directing the Integrity Commission to activate the law rewarding whistleblowers. He stressed the submission of regular reports and the necessity of monitoring projects across various levels, commensurate with their size and cost. The Integrity Commission is tasked with overseeing provincial projects with the same diligence as ministerial ones, marking a comprehensive approach to combating corruption and safeguarding public funds.
The Prime Minister’s visit to the Federal Integrity Commission headquarters underscored his commitment to these initiatives. During the visit, Al-Zaidi met with the commission’s leadership and reviewed its operational mechanisms and anti-corruption efforts. He emphasized that the commission’s role extends beyond oversight to include preventive measures, aiming to eradicate corruption entirely.
The head of the Integrity Commission expressed gratitude for the Prime Minister’s support, highlighting the completion of contract audits in eight ministries and the ongoing work to finalize audits in remaining institutions. The commission also completed the National Strategy for Integrity and Combating Corruption, set to last until 2030.
In diplomatic developments, Prime Minister Al-Zaidi received an official invitation to visit Egypt, signaling continued cooperation and partnership between the two nations. The invitation, extended by Egyptian Intelligence Chief Hassan Mahmoud Rashad, reflects a shared commitment to strengthening bilateral relations and fostering regional stability.
In discussions with Joshua Harris, the US Embassy’s Charg© d’Affaires in Iraq, Al-Zaidi explored ways to enhance cooperation and expand partnerships with the United States. The discussions emphasized mutual interests and reinforced the commitment to developing joint economic initiatives and regional security.
The initiatives and diplomatic engagements of Prime Minister Al-Zaidi portray a comprehensive approach to advancing Iraq’s strategic interests, both economically and internationally.