Al-Sudani to Present Iraq's Development Strategy at the United Nations General Assembly: PM advisor

 

Baghdad - INA
 
Hussein Al-Alawi, advisor to the Prime Minister, stated on Sunday that Prime Minister Muhammad Shia' Al-Sudani will lead Iraq's delegation at the United Nations General Assembly, where he will discuss key sustainable development indicators and advocate for productive diplomacy for international cooperation and concluding the UNAMI mission.

Al-Alawi confirmed that the Prime Minister will formally present Iraq's comprehensive development strategy during the Assembly sessions.
In remarks to the Iraqi News Agency (INA), Al-Alawi articulated, "Iraq is embracing a proactive diplomatic approach designed to foster sustained international cooperation within the global framework, while simultaneously facilitating the transition for ending the mission of UNAMI. This effort is complemented by ongoing collaboration with various United Nations agencies."

He underscored Iraq's commitment to leveraging the opportunity presented by the 79th session of the UN General Assembly in 2024 as a global platform for dialogue. This session will enable the Iraqi government to communicate its policies and development strategies effectively, allowing for discussions on progress across multiple sectors, including labor, social issues, and governance.
Al-Alawi highlighted the government's focus on developmental renaissance through the announcement of a five-year plan, alongside initiatives to adapt to climate change and combat the effects of global warming.
He also noted the launch of the "Zero Flame" initiative aimed at eliminating gas flaring, which the government has actively pursued for the past 23 months, emphasizing that these initiatives have invigorated the oil, gas, and renewable energy sectors, setting Iraq on a transformative path toward a new era. Furthermore, he mentioned that the government is targeting an increase in the utilization of flared gas from 69% to 75%, with aspirations to position Iraq among the world's top five gas producers. Ongoing efforts are also directed toward enhancing energy production and establishing a robust industrial environment reliant on gas to achieve national self-sufficiency.
 
Al-Alawi elaborated that Iraq seeks to invest in crude oil production to advance the refining industry, thereby reducing imports and enhancing high-efficiency, environmentally friendly production through significant investments in refineries across Basra and other provinces. This strategy aims to maximize the use of national resources, increase financial revenues for the federal budget, and bolster domestic fuel production.

 

 

Regarding youth engagement, Al-Alawi reaffirmed that "youth represent a critical sector in our development efforts."
 He noted that the Prime Minister has prioritized the integration of youth capabilities into governmental initiatives by establishing the Higher Council for Youth and the Higher Council for Women, as well as promoting youth-led initiatives, digital transformation, and fostering private sector involvement along with attracting both Arab and foreign investments in Iraq.
 
He further indicated that Iraq is committed to transitioning toward e-governance and streamlining government operations via the Iraqi government platform Ur. This initiative aims to provide a multitude of services that enhance operational efficiency, reduce bureaucratic obstacles, and expedite processes for citizens, investors, and public service beneficiaries. Additionally, there is a focus on promoting digital literacy and creating an innovative work environment for global technology firms to facilitate Iraq’s digital transformation in governance, management, and public service.
 
Al-Alawi emphasized that “Iraq is now represented by a government and a national delegation led by Prime Minister Muhammad Shia' Al-Sudani to deliver Iraq's address at the General Assembly, focusing on discussions about sustainable human development indicators and advancements in Iraq's developmental objectives. This includes participation in the Summit of the Future, which convenes numerous world leaders to address collaboration, confront challenges, and reaffirm commitments. The agenda will also involve a series of discussions and meetings with various heads of state, as well as with the Secretary-General of the United Nations and officials from international organizations. Furthermore, Iraq will engage in the Summit of the Global Coalition to combat the threats posed by synthetic drugs.”

 

 
He highlighted that “Iraq has implemented a national strategy to combat drug-related issues, with significant efforts dedicated over the past 23 months to address this challenge through a comprehensive national policy that focuses on prevention, treatment, monitoring, and community reintegration. This strategy marks a significant shift in Iraq’s approach, coinciding with the establishment of several specialized hospitals across Baghdad and other provinces, and utilizing social and religious frameworks to combat drug abuse, thereby supporting government policies aimed at eradicating this societal threat, particularly among the youth.”
 
Al-Alawi concluded by stating that “the anticipated outcomes from these meetings are expected to yield significant opportunities for collaboration with international companies in sectors such as oil, gas, economics, investment, banking, and other institutions aiming to establish a presence in Iraq.”
 
He reiterated that “Iraq has emerged as a crucial player in regional and international policy dynamics, possessing deep-rooted relationships with key stakeholders involved in international and regional conflicts. Iraq aspires to mediate between these parties to enhance efforts toward peace in the Middle East and beyond, aligning with the principles of productive diplomacy.”
 
In closing, Al-Alawi affirmed that “Iraq's development and advancement agenda is steadfastly progressing towards establishing a dignified state founded on principles of development, youth empowerment, and a robust private sector.”
 
It is noteworthy that Prime Minister Muhammad Shia' Al-Sudani arrived in New York yesterday to participate in the 79th session of the United Nations General Assembly. According to a statement from his media office, “the Prime Minister will deliver Iraq's address at the General Assembly and also speak at the Summit of the Future, which will involve numerous world leaders focusing on enhancing cooperation, confronting challenges, and reaffirming commitments.”
 
Additionally, he is scheduled to engage in a series of meetings and dialogues with several heads of state, as well as with the Secretary-General of the United Nations and officials from various international organizations and agencies.