Baghdad: Prime Minister Ali Faleh Al-Zaidi has announced directives for investment authorities in various governorates to receive investment loans specifically for the construction of infrastructure in new cities. This strategic move aims to bolster urban development and accommodate future population and economic growth.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, a statement from the Prime Minister’s media office revealed details of a meeting held on Thursday, which included key figures such as the Minister of Finance, the Director of the Prime Minister’s Office, the Governor of the Central Bank of Iraq, the Head of the Higher Coordination Committee for Governorates, and the Head of the National Investment Commission. During the meeting, Al-Zaidi underscored the significance of adopting a visionary approach to investment and urban development, emphasizing the creation of integrated, modern cities in each governorate.

Al-Zaidi’s directive outlines that each governorate should establish a new city, covering an area between 10,000 and 15,000 dunams. These cities are to reflect the unique characteristics, history, heritage, and spatial advantages of their respective governorates and bear their names. The investment loans are intended to ensure comprehensive infrastructure development, including essential services, thereby transforming these new urban areas into hubs of growth and attractive environments for residents and economic activities.

In addition, the Prime Minister has called for the formation of a specialized committee tasked with urgently studying the project and developing suitable implementation strategies. Investment authorities are required to present a complete vision for the project within a week, detailing proposals and necessary requirements for initiating implementation.

Moreover, Al-Zaidi directed the Ministry of Finance to streamline the processes for land allocation necessary for the establishment of these new cities, ensuring that project requirements are met swiftly to facilitate the commencement of construction.