Baghdad: Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani emphasized that the current levels of security and stability in Iraq owe a significant debt to the sacrifices and staunch support of the country's tribes.
According to National Iraqi News Agency, al-Sudani's media office released a statement following his meeting with tribal sheikhs and dignitaries from the Balad District in Salah al-Din Governorate. In this meeting, al-Sudani expressed gratitude for the heroic efforts of the Iraqi tribes and their martyrs in the fight against ISIS, highlighting the necessity of learning from these experiences to guard against future discord and division within the nation. He noted Iraq's diverse communities as a source of strength and unity.
Al-Sudani dismissed any association between terrorist groups and Iraqi tribes or society. He shared his experiences of engaging with tribal leaders during the critical days of combating ISIS, commending their unwavering support as fundamental to the Iraqi state's legacy.
The Prime Minister stated that the government, in collaboration with political entities and the Council of Representatives, has made considerable strides over the past three years in executing its program. This includes launching various service and health initiatives, as well as potable water and infrastructure projects across the nation.
Al-Sudani underscored the vital role tribes play in state-building and support. He reaffirmed that Iraq is now a safe, stable, and unified country, where all citizens are integral to its progress and prosperity. He stressed the importance of upholding institutional respect and legal frameworks as the basis for future development.
He reiterated that the tribal contributions were crucial to achieving current security and stability, and with their continued support, the state can fulfill its obligations. Emphasizing the need to move beyond past conflicts, he insisted that regions must not become fertile grounds for extremist ideologies.
Al-Sudani further outlined the government's commitment to providing essential services, reconstruction, and development opportunities, with specific focus on enhancing the agricultural, industrial, and tourism sectors to diversify Iraq's economic resources.
The Prime Minister also mentioned reforms in the financial and banking sectors, along with measures to support farmers amidst ongoing challenges. He stressed the importance of active electoral participation for those in office, noting the doubled responsibility it entails.
Concluding his remarks, al-Sudani reflected on the government's adept navigation through a turbulent period in a volatile region, maintaining its core principles throughout.