Baghdad: At the beginning of his remarks, Al-Hakim congratulated Muslims on the arrival of Rabi’ al-Awwal, the month marking the blessed birth that changed the course of history, referring to the birth of the Prophet Muhammad(PBUH) and Imam Ja’far al-Sadiq, the statement said.
According to Iraqi News Agency, Al-Hakim highlighted the positive image presented by Iraqis during the Arbaeen pilgrimage, when millions travelled to the shrine of Imam Hussein despite the intense heat, while thousands of Husseini processions provided services through voluntary work and self-funded efforts. The absence of major incidents also reflected effective management and organizing, he said.
The region is experiencing exceptional circumstances due to the ongoing war and instability, which have affected Iraq and placed it under exceptional conditions, particularly economically, Al-Hakim said. Iraqi oil exports have halted, requiring the issue to be addressed by diversifying export outlets, in addition to pursuing the strategic objective of diversifying sources of income through agriculture, industry, tourism, investment and technology, he added.
Al-Hakim renewed his support for Prime Minister Ali Al-Zaidi’s government in its efforts to build strong relations with countries in the region and around the world and strengthen Iraq’s presence in international forums to dispel misconceptions, enhance partnerships and clarify its positions, as well as in its efforts to combat corruption.
He expressed his support for the anti-corruption campaign, stressing the importance of continuing it along the same approach and targeting major files, while emphasizing electronic governance and digitalization to achieve greater transparency and safeguard public funds.
He stressed the need to complete the government cabinet and expedite the process so that Iraq would have a fully formed government capable of implementing its programme.
Al-Hakim said Iraq’s interests lie in maintaining independence in its political decision-making while remaining open to all regional blocs without becoming a party to any of them.
On the issue of placing all arms under state authority, Al-Hakim reiterated that understanding and dialogue were the best means of resolving the issue, while stressing the importance of taking into account the circumstances of armed factions that had made sacrifices and lost fighters in the fight against terrorism and the liberation of Iraqi territory.