Baghdad: The head of the Reconstruction and Development Coalition, Mohammed Shia al-Sudani, has reiterated the coalition’s unwavering support for art and its associated issues during a meeting with the head of the Artists Syndicate, Jabbar Judi.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, Judi expressed his gratitude to al-Sudani for his significant contributions during his tenure as Prime Minister. He particularly highlighted the launch of the Prime Minister’s grant aimed at supporting Iraqi drama, a move that has invigorated artistic production. Furthermore, al-Sudani’s allocation of financial grants to professional syndicates has been instrumental in providing health and social care for their members.

The coalition’s statement also praised the initiative supporting cinema, with 58 film projects currently in the pipeline. Al-Sudani emphasized that supporting Iraqi artists forms a fundamental pillar, as they are intellectuals crucial to the nation’s development and reconstruction. He stressed that promoting Iraqi drama helps project the country’s true image, unmarred by misrepresentation.

Al-Sudani further acknowledged the pivotal role of Iraqi artists, including actors, visual artists, and directors, as the nation’s living conscience. He assured that the Reconstruction and Development Coalition is steadfast in its commitment to addressing the issues facing the art community.

He also highlighted the necessity for enhanced cooperation and partnership between the state and the union in the forthcoming phase. This collaboration aims to elevate the living and moral standards of Iraqi artists while addressing their humanitarian and medical needs.