INA - BAGHDAD

PM Muhammed S. Al-Sudani received on Tuesday Najla Imad, the athlete who made history by winning a gold medal in table tennis at the Paris Paralympics, accompanied by her father and coach, Jamal Jalal, in the presence of the PM's Advisor for Women's Affairs.

"The Prime Minister congratulated Najla on her 'remarkable achievement', which carries an important humanitarian message," according to a statement by the PM Media Office - received by the Iraqi News Agency - INA.   

The statement included, "Despite the challenges of terrorism, she persevered through dedication and training, becoming the first Iraqi woman to win a gold medal in an international competition."

Al-Sudani expressed his deep gratitude to her father and coach for their vital role in this achievement, "which brings great pride to the Iraqi people," instructing that Najla be honored at the upcoming session of the Higher Council for Women, ensuring that "she and her fellow champions will receive all the necessary support for their continued success."

The PM emphasized that the government places great importance on sports, viewing it as a key developmental sector and a priority alongside other national interests.

"Supporting a wide range of sports disciplines beyond football is important," he added, highlighting the launch of the Olympic Champion Project, which aims to cultivate athletes for the 2028 and 2032 Olympic Games.