PM Al-Sudani: My official visit to Germany affirms the strength of Baghdad and Berlin relations

INA - BAGHDAD 

Prime Minister Muhammed Shiaa Al-Sudani considered his upcoming visit to Germany an affirmation of the strength of the political and economic relations between Baghdad and Berlin, while confirming his intention to submit a proposal to the German government to form a joint committee and pave the way for the voluntary return of Iraqis.

Al-Sudani said, in an article followed by the Iraqi News Agency - INA, that "his official visit to Germany is an affirmation of the strength of political and economic relations between Baghdad and Berlin."

He explained that "his government's program focuses on strengthening good governance in addition to taking swift and decisive measures in combating corruption."

"The German experience is of a great benefit to us in supporting the Integrity Commission as to developing procedures, strategies and policies to combat corruption," he pointed out, stressing, "We aim to enhance trade exchanges with Germany and raise it to a level commensurate with the bilateral relations between the two countries."

He noted that "building a strong economy gives Iraqi youth an opportunity to invest. No government can force migrants to return."

"We will propose to the German government the formation of a joint committee to pave the way for the voluntary return of Iraqis. We will also work closely with Germany on sensitive issues such as deportations and carefully examine each case in accordance with the law and agreements between the two countries," he included.

PM Al-Sudani pointed out that "Berlin contributed about $3.4 billion to development and reconstruction efforts in Iraq."

He went on noting that "the German Agency for International Cooperation has helped more than 37,000 Iraqis find jobs or start their own businesses, including 30% of women."

"Germany contributes effectively to the Reform, Recovery and Reconstruction Fund for Iraq. The areas of cooperation between Iraq and Germany are multifaceted," he indicated. 

He pointed out that "Siemens is working to provide electricity to about 23 million Iraqis via 13 power stations across the country. These power stations are the cornerstone of the reconstruction of Iraq because they are essential for the country's economic development."