Prime Minister: Iraq’s interest comes first, and its future cannot be mortgaged to oil alone.
Prime Minister: Iraq’s interest comes first, and its future cannot be mortgaged to oil alone.
2025-04-05
Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani stressed that there were hasty voices trying to drag Iraq into war, stressing that the interests of Iraq and Iraqis are the government’s priority in its work. He added that Iraq cannot remain hostage to oil alone, especially since it has other important components such as agriculture, industry and tourism. The Prime Minister’s media office said in a statement that al-Sudani met with a group of tribal sheikhs and dignitaries from various components in Baghdad, where he congratulated those present on the occasion of Eid al-Fitr, extending his thanks to Hajj Rahim Majiser al-Baydani for the invitation, emphasizing the social and humanitarian role played by al-Baydani in supporting the security forces and displaced persons during the war on terrorism.
Speaking about the role of tribes, Al-Sudani noted that tribes have consistently supported the state’s progress since its founding. He recalled their sacrifices at various historical junctures, including their active participation in the 1920 Revolution and in the collective jihad against terrorism, where all tribesmen rallied to confront the challenges facing the country.
The Prime Minister also highlighted the importance of the reference made by the supreme religious authority regarding the cultural and intellectual heritage of Iraqis, saying that Iraq, with its civilization and resources, is capable of facing various challenges. He emphasized that the authority’s talk about Iraq’s recovery is a reassuring message to those who seek to spread anxiety and defeatism in society.
Al-Sudani continued, saying that Iraq today is strong, capable, healthy, and progressing, as evidenced by the unprecedented reconstruction and development from Basra to Nineveh. He explained that the government is working according to basic priorities that focus on the needs of the people, far removed from personal or partisan objectives.
Regarding the economy, Al-Sudani emphasized that the country’s future cannot be mortgaged solely to oil. He noted that Iraq possesses significant potential in agriculture, industry, and tourism, explaining that Iraq’s geographic location as a global trade corridor constitutes a strategic advantage, which is why the “Development Road” project was launched.
He added that the government is working to implement important reforms and has achieved remarkable progress in this area over the past two and a half years.
In concluding his remarks, Mr. Al-Sudani addressed regional and international positions, noting that the Iraqi government faced significant challenges amid the exceptional circumstances facing the region, while maintaining Iraq’s principled position on the Palestinian issue. He emphasized that the continued aggression against the Palestinians demonstrates the international community’s failure to address the issue.
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