More “Iraq News” posted by Clare at KTFA 1-27-2025
KTFA:
Clare: Iraq boosts financial stability with huge dollar and gold reserves in US, Europe
1/27/2025
A country that has huge reserves of hard currency is considered an economically stable country that can intervene at any time to address imbalances in the balance of payments structure. It also provides an important element in establishing the country's creditworthiness, enhances the country's credit rating in international transactions, and provides cover for its local currency.
The country that has reserves takes into account their diversification (securities, deposits, gold and bonds...) in addition to geographical distribution to reduce exposure to risks and provide returns that ensure the sustainability of these reserves.
KTFA:
Clare: Iraq boosts financial stability with huge dollar and gold reserves in US, Europe
1/27/2025
A country that has huge reserves of hard currency is considered an economically stable country that can intervene at any time to address imbalances in the balance of payments structure. It also provides an important element in establishing the country's creditworthiness, enhances the country's credit rating in international transactions, and provides cover for its local currency.
The country that has reserves takes into account their diversification (securities, deposits, gold and bonds...) in addition to geographical distribution to reduce exposure to risks and provide returns that ensure the sustainability of these reserves.
Diversified financial assets
In this regard, the Prime Minister's Advisor, Mazhar Mohammed Salih, explained to Shafak News Agency, "Countries seek to diversify their reserves to include different currencies and various financial assets to achieve greater stability, and the US dollar is the main reserve in the reserves of these countries, because it is the most accepted and used global currency in international transactions and the most flexible."
He added, "Most countries prefer to hold assets that provide them with a fixed and stable income, such as US or European treasury bonds that can generate annual interest, while gold does not generate fixed returns like government bonds."
Saleh pointed out that "it is difficult to deal with gold in times of crisis, as it is difficult to convert gold into liquidity quickly compared to other financial assets such as foreign currencies and bonds."
The foreign exchange reserve is the country's reserve of foreign currencies, and is called the foreign exchange reserve. The purpose of the reserve is to protect itself and maneuver with it in times of economic recession or war.
The Central Bank of Iraq announced in 2024 that Iraq has a foreign currency reserve exceeding $100 billion.
Bond investment
For his part, the economic expert and professor of economics at the University of Iraq, Abdul Rahman Al-Mashhadani, stated that “the existing reserves of hard currencies are the reserves of countries, not governments,” indicating that “Iraq possesses a group of them amounting to approximately 106 billion dollars, of which 16 billion dollars is the value of gold in these reserves, and the rest is foreign currencies.”
Al-Mashhadani explained, during his talk to the agency, that "gold as a reserve cannot be invested except by buying and selling. Iraq sells when the price of gold rises and buys when the price falls, and thus achieves profits in this field," adding, "Its storage in international banks is subject to fees."
He pointed out that "the currency reserve is divided into more than one section, some of which are invested in US Treasury bonds in the range of 31 to 34 billion dollars, and the rest are used for debts," noting that "Iraq does not have sovereign funds like Saudi Arabia and others for surplus currencies, which are invested in various fields."
Iraq has 152.6 tons of gold reserves, which makes it 29th in the world out of 100 countries listed in the reserves table, and third in the Arab world after Saudi Arabia and Lebanon.
Foreign investment
In contrast, the financial expert and former general manager of the Central Bank, Mahmoud Dagher, pointed out that “Iraq has more than 100 billion dollars distributed among the world’s banks and central banks, especially the US Federal Reserve, the European Bank, the Bank of England in Britain, the Basel Bank in Switzerland, the Emirates, and Saudi Arabia.”
Dagher told Shafaq News Agency, "These reserves contain foreign currencies, bonds, and gold, and are managed by the Central Bank and achieve good financial returns. This is what is called foreign investment."
Coin cover
In addition, Jamal Kojer, a member of the Parliamentary Finance Committee, told the agency, "Iraq's large reserves of hard currency, including gold, provide cover for the local currency and give it stability."
Koger added, "Many bet on the fall and demise of the currency, and therefore these reserves make the central bank intervene in the event of any imbalance facing financial policy."
Variable reserves
But the economic expert, Hilal Al-Taan, saw that “all countries of the world boast about the amount of hard currency they have as a reserve, and this currency consists of the currencies of countries such as the dollar, the euro, and the franc, as well as gold.”
Al-Taan concluded, during his interview with Shafaq News Agency, that "Iraq is among the countries that were able, after 2003, to increase their currency balance to more than 110 billion dollars, and also to increase their gold balance to more than 150 tons."
He concluded his speech by saying, "These reserves are constantly changing in terms of the returns that Iraq obtains, through investing these currencies as interest in banks and as bonds." LINK
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Clare: CMC and U.S. Chamber of Commerce discuss supporting the Iraqi private sector in the United States
1/27/2025 Baghdad
The Commission of Media and Communications CMC and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce discussed on Monday the support of the Iraqi private sector and its presence in the United States, stressing the importance of strengthening the presence of American technology major companies in Iraq.
CMC stated in a statement obtained by the Iraqi News Agency (INA), that "the Chairman of CMC, Ali Al-Moayyad, received at the Commission's headquarters in Baghdad, the Chairman of the US-Iraqi Business Council and Vice President of the American Chamber of Commerce, Steve Lotus."
CMC added that "during the meeting, they reviewed the major transformations taking place in Iraq, including the urban revolution and the noticeable developments in infrastructure, as well as the Iraqi media experience, which is a model to be followed in the region, and the great achievements witnessed by the media sector after 2003, including the remarkable expansion in the number of media institutions."
CMC added that "the meeting discussed the importance of the communications and technology sector in supporting the Iraqi economy, as it represents the second source of state resources after the oil sector," pointing out that "during the meeting, the significant growth in the authority's resources, which tripled during the last two years, was addressed."
CMC pointed to "emphasizing the importance of strengthening the presence of American technology major companies in Iraq, as this represents an added value to the national economy, the transfer of modern technologies and the development of technological infrastructure," noting that "the meeting also discussed the necessary facilities to support Iraqi private sector investments and strengthen its presence in the United States, ensuring a high level of economic and technological cooperation between the two countries."
CMC pointed out that "the meeting also reviewed opportunities for cooperation with American companies to develop the digital economy in Iraq, strengthen technological infrastructure, in addition to providing support in developing regulations and legislation that serve the private sector, and the fields of digitization and communications that are witnessing rapid developments." LINK
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Clare: Al-Sudani sponsors a memorandum of understanding between the Iraqi Securities and the Abu Dhabi Market
1/27/2025
On Monday, the Prime Minister of the Federal Council, Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani, sponsored the signing ceremony of a memorandum of understanding between the Iraqi Securities Commission and the Abu Dhabi Securities Market.
His media office said in a statement received by Shafak News Agency that Al-Sudani received today the CEO of the Abu Dhabi Securities Market, Abdullah Salem Al-Nuaimi, and discussed ways of joint cooperation in the field of exchanging expertise and developing mechanisms for expanding the activities of the private sector to achieve economic growth.
The statement added that Al-Sudani sponsored the signing ceremony of a memorandum of understanding between the Securities and Exchange Commission and the Abu Dhabi Securities Market, where Faisal Wissam Al-Haimus, Chairman of the Securities and Exchange Commission, signed on the Iraqi side, and Abdullah Al-Naimi signed on the Emirati side.
The MoU includes axes of cooperation in several areas, the most important of which are enhancing and developing the monitoring of daily trading in the market, and brokerage firms, cooperation in the field of dual listing conditions and mechanisms, and in developing and using technological applications and applications and mechanisms for subscriptions and initial listings, as well as in the field of cases of suspending trading on shares and timings for re-trading, and the requirements for licensing REIT funds.
The memorandum also included the exchange of expertise in the field of training, especially the activities of supervision and information technology, trading and clearing, digital transformation and financial analysis, depositing, managing funds and portfolios and supervising them, cooperation in the field of Islamic bonds and sukuk, depositing, settlement and independent financial services, and the requirements and mechanism for opening accounts for foreign investors from outside the country.
In light of the memorandum, Emirati investments will be encouraged in establishing Iraqi companies with Emirati-Iraqi capital, and their trading in both markets will be explored, according to the statement.LINK
Clare: Baghdad and Erbil agreed.. Parliamentary consensus to pass the budget law amendment soon
1/27/2025 Baghdad
Today, Monday (January 27, 2025), the representative of the Al-Fatah Alliance, Mukhtar Al-Moussawi, confirmed that there is a parliamentary consensus to pass the amendment to the budget law during the upcoming legislative sessions.
Al-Moussawi told Baghdad Today that "there is a parliamentary agreement to pass the budget law during the upcoming sessions," noting that "there are political agreements as well as an agreement between Baghdad and Erbil on this amendment, and that the parliamentary finance committee's Meetings are continuing to agree on the final amendment formula.”
He explained that "the House of Representatives supports any agreement between Baghdad and Erbil, and we do not want the House to be a reason for obstructing negotiations and solutions."
On Thursday, January 23, 2025, the federal government denied what the Kurdistan Regional Government spokesman announced regarding submitting a proposal that differs from the Council of Ministers' amendment to the financial budget law to the House of Representatives.
Government spokesman Bassem Al-Awadi said in a statement received by Baghdad Today: “Based on the government's keenness on transparency and disclosure to citizens of the progress of its executive work, especially with regard to the budget issue, which is a fundamental pillar for implementation the obligations contained in the government program, we affirm the government's commitment to the amendments sent to the House of Representatives regarding the budget law, which takes into account the supreme national interest, and we stress that the government's representative in the House of Representatives “He stressed the necessity of not making any other amendments to the budget law that contradict the texts submitted by the Council of Ministers.”
He added, "At the same time, we deny what was stated in the statement of the spokesman for the Kurdistan Regional Government of Iraq, and we are surprised by what was stated in it regarding the claim that the representative of the federal government in the House of Representatives obstructed the amendment of the article related to the procedures for resuming oil exports from the region.”
Al-Awadi stressed "the importance of the Kurdistan Regional Government's commitment to the provisions of the Federal General Budget Law, including the delivery of financial revenues, whether oil or non-oil, to the federal government, in accordance with what is stipulated in the law and the decision of the Federal Court.”
He explained that "adherence to these procedures is a necessary step to resolve the problems related to this file and enhance cooperation between the two sides, and the federal government hopes that the House of Representatives will expedite the approval of the amendment in accordance with the text Approved by the Council of Ministers, for the benefit of Iraq, all of Iraq.”
The spokesman for the Kurdistan Regional Government said in a statement earlier today that “after a series of meetings and persistent efforts aimed at amending the federal general budget law by the Council of Representatives with the aim of resuming the export of the region’s oil, and after Completing the first and second readings, unfortunately, the draft law was not approved in the agreed-upon form at the last minute.”
He pointed out that, “What increased our surprise was that the representative of the federal government in the House of Representatives submitted a different proposal to the Council unilaterally, without prior consultation with the Kurdistan Regional Government, and without submitting it to the Federal Council of Ministers for a vote, which contradicts the previous decision of the Council of Ministers regarding the approval of the draft law amendment for the purpose of resuming the export of oil from the Kurdistan Region.”
The Kurdistan Regional Government spokesman stressed that "such attempts only serve to harm Iraq, and contribute to deepening crises instead of finding effective solutions to them. Accordingly, we declare our complete rejection of these measures and proposals, and we emphasize the necessity of presenting the agreed-upon draft law and its approval by the Federal Council of Ministers and voting on it.”LINK
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Clare: Coming from Erbil... A convoy of American military vehicles arrives at Ain al-Assad base in Anbar
1/26/2025
Information/Anbar...
A security source in Anbar province reported on Sunday that a convoy carrying American vehicles and equipment arrived at Ain al-Assad base, coming from Erbil province.
The source told Al-Maalouma that "a large American convoy carrying American military equipment and vehicles arrived at the Ain al-Assad air base in the Al-Baghdadi area in the Hit district, west of Anbar, coming from Erbil Governorate without knowing the real Reasons behind the arrival of military reinforcements to the base building."
He added, "The convoy's movement from Erbil Governorate to Ain al-Assad base was accompanied by American aircraft flying over the areas where the convoy was located to protect it until it reached its settlement."
He explained that "American security companies are carrying out the task of delivering this equipment, while the soldiers are transported by warplanes to the Ain al-Assad air base and from there to the areas where American forces are present," stressing that "the movements of American forces' convoys have decreased significantly during the past period." LINK
Some “Iraq News” Posted by Clare at KTFA 1-26-2025
KTFA:
Clare: Central Bank of Iraq announces support for US investment opportunities
1/26/2025
The Governor of the Central Bank of Iraq, Ali Mohsen Al-Alaq, received on Sunday an official delegation from the United States headed by Steve Lutes, Vice President of the American Chamber of Commerce and President of the US-Iraq Business Council, in the capital, Baghdad.
A statement issued by the bank's media, received by Shafaq News Agency, stated that the meeting discussed strengthening banking and economic relations between Iraq and the United States, in addition to the upcoming visit of the Central Bank of Iraq delegation to Washington next April, which will include meetings with the American Chamber of Commerce and American companies.
KTFA:
Clare: Central Bank of Iraq announces support for US investment opportunities
1/26/2025
The Governor of the Central Bank of Iraq, Ali Mohsen Al-Alaq, received on Sunday an official delegation from the United States headed by Steve Lutes, Vice President of the American Chamber of Commerce and President of the US-Iraq Business Council, in the capital, Baghdad.
A statement issued by the bank's media, received by Shafaq News Agency, stated that the meeting discussed strengthening banking and economic relations between Iraq and the United States, in addition to the upcoming visit of the Central Bank of Iraq delegation to Washington next April, which will include meetings with the American Chamber of Commerce and American companies.
Al-Alaq pointed out the desire of American companies to invest in the fields of energy, infrastructure and modern technology, stressing the importance of investing in the security stability witnessed by Iraq. The Governor of the Central Bank confirmed Iraq's support for the path of economic growth, with the provision of the necessary support to international companies, including American companies and banks, stressing the need for diversification in investment fields.
The two sides also discussed the mechanisms of international trade, and the process of Iraq's transition to full operation in foreign transfers through correspondent banks..LINK
Clare: The Central Bank receives an American delegation and discusses with it Iraq's foreign transfers
1/26/2025 Baghdad
The Governor of the Central Bank of Iraq, Ali Al-Alaq, met with an American delegation in the capital, Baghdad, on Sunday, and discussed with him how Iraq can move to fully operate in foreign transfers through correspondent banks.
The Central Bank said in a statement received by "Al-Eqtisad News" that "Al-Alaq received Steve Lutes, Vice President of the US Chamber of Commerce and President of the US-Iraq Business Council and his accompanying delegation in Baghdad."
According to the statement, during the meeting, they discussed banking and economic relations between the two countries, the upcoming visit of the Central Bank of Iraq delegation to Washington, and their meeting with the US Chamber of Commerce and American companies next April.
The meeting discussed the desire of American companies to invest in the energy, infrastructure and modern technology sectors and to invest in the security stability witnessed by Iraq, as indicated in the statement.
The statement conveyed Al-Alaq's confirmation that the Central Bank "supports the path of economic growth in Iraq and provides the necessary support to international companies wishing to invest in Iraq, including American companies and banks," noting "the importance of diversification in investment sectors."
The two parties also discussed the mechanisms of international trade and the process of Iraq's transition to fully operate in foreign transfers through correspondent banks, according to the statement. LINK
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Clare: Governor of the Central Bank: We provide the necessary support to international companies wishing to invest in Iraq, including American companies and banks.
1/26/2025
The Governor of the Central Bank, Ali Al-Alaq, confirmed that the Central Bank provides the necessary support to international companies wishing to invest in Iraq, including American companies and banks.
The Central Bank of Iraq stated in a statement: "The Governor of the Central Bank of Iraq, Ali Mohsen Al-Alaq, met today with the Vice President of the American Chamber of Commerce, Steve Lutes, and the President of the American-Iraqi Business Council and his accompanying delegation in Baghdad."
He pointed out that "the meeting discussed the banking and economic relations between the two countries and the upcoming visit of the Central Bank of Iraq delegation to Washington and their meeting with the American Chamber of Commerce and American companies next April."
He continued that "the meeting discussed the desire of American companies to invest in the energy, infrastructure and modern technology sectors and to invest in the security stability witnessed by Iraq. The two parties also discussed the mechanisms of international trade and the process of Iraq's transition to fully operating in external transfers through correspondent banks."
During the meeting, the governor stressed that "the Central Bank of Iraq supports the economic growth process in Iraq and provides the necessary support to international companies wishing to invest in Iraq, including American companies and banks," noting "the importance of diversification in investment sectors." LINK
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Claare: Minister of Trade calls for holding a "Made in America" exhibition in Iraq and the presence of American companies in the Baghdad Exhibition sessions
1/26/2025 Baghdad/
Minister of Trade Athir Dawood Al-Ghariri discussed with the US Chargé d'Affaires in Baghdad, Ambassador Daniel Rubinstein, Vice President of the US Chamber of Commerce and Chairman of the Iraqi-American Business Council Steve Lutes, and the accompanying delegation, ways to enhance economic and trade relations between Iraq and the United States.
The Ministry of Trade said in a statement, "The Minister stressed during the meeting Iraq's keenness to strengthen its economic relations with the United States within the framework of the government's orientations towards approving and implementing economic reforms to improve the business and investment environment.
Al-Ghariri pointed out, according to the statement, the exceptional efforts made by the Ministry in coordination with government agencies to hold the third round of negotiations for Iraq's accession to the World Trade Organization after a 16-year hiatus, as Iraq submitted files for goods and services and reviewed economic reforms, including the legislation of the Intellectual Property Law.
The Minister explained: "Iraq seeks to simplify the procedures for the work of American companies inside the country to support trade and investment between the two countries," referring to self-sufficiency in local wheat during the past two years, with the continuation of work on the memoranda of understanding signed with the American side related to the country's needs.
He called on American companies to hold a "Made in America" exhibition inside Iraq and organize a forum between the Iraqi and American private sectors to review investment opportunities and available projects, and hoped that American companies would be present in the sessions of the Baghdad International Fair.
For his part, Ambassador Rubinstein expressed his aspiration for more cooperation and openness between the two countries, referring to the economic reforms that Iraq is witnessing to improve the business and investment environment. He also announced preparations for a visit by a delegation of American businessmen to Iraq next April.
In turn, Steve Lutes thanked the Ministry of Commerce for its support for the work of American companies, praising the Iraqi efforts to improve the business environment and encourage investments.
The statement added: "The two parties agreed to enhance cooperation to expand the business base and strengthen economic and trade relations in a way that serves the common interests of the two countries." LINK
Clare: Al-Sudani confirms Iraq's readiness to coordinate between regional countries
1/26/2025 Baghdad
Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani confirmed, on Sunday, Iraq's readiness to coordinate between the countries of the region, especially with Turkey, regarding developments in the regional arena, reiterating Iraq's rejection of Syria being an arena for conflict.
The Prime Minister's Media Office said in a statement, seen by "Al-Eqtisad News", that "Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani received Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan, where during the meeting, bilateral relations between the two countries were discussed, and a number of regional and international issues of common interest were discussed, especially developments in the region and events in Syria."
The statement added, "The meeting discussed the latest developments in Syria, Gaza and Lebanon, and stressed the importance of adhering to the ceasefire."
He continued, "The meeting also discussed the importance of unifying efforts between the countries of the region in order to support its stability. In this regard, the Prime Minister affirmed Iraq's readiness to coordinate between the countries of the region, especially with Turkey, regarding the developments witnessed in the regional arena, reiterating Iraq's rejection of Syria being an arena for the conflict in which it works to establish stability, due to the impact of this on the region in general."
The Prime Minister stressed, according to the statement, "the government's follow-up on the bilateral relations file, and the implementation of the memoranda of understanding that were signed in light of his visit to Ankara last November, as well as within the framework of Erdogan's visit to Baghdad that took place in April of last year."
For his part, Fidan conveyed the greetings of the Turkish President to the Prime Minister, and expressed his country's desire for close coordination with Iraq regarding developments in the region, pointing to the desire to enhance cooperation in bilateral relations, in light of the two mutual visits of Mr. Al-Sudani and the Turkish President.
The Turkish Foreign Minister also reiterated his country's seriousness in working on the Strategic Development Road project, as well as cooperation in light of the memoranda of understanding signed between the two countries in the fields of energy, education, trade exchange, banking cooperation, and other fields. LINK
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Clare: Al-Sudani: Economic reforms have raised the level of foreign investments in Iraq
1/26/2025 Baghdad
Prime Minister Mohammed Shia confirmed, on Sunday, that the government has made significant progress in various aspects of economic reform and digital commercial and banking transformation, noting that economic reforms have been able to raise the level of foreign investment in Iraq.
The Prime Minister's Media Office said in a statement, seen by "Al-Eqtisad News", that "Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani received the Chairman of the US-Iraq Business Council, Vice President of the US Chamber of Commerce Steve Lotus."
He added, "The meeting reviewed trade and cooperation relations between Iraq and the United States, and efforts to prepare for the US Companies Representatives Forum, which will be held in Iraq during this year. The implementation of 18 agreements and memoranda of understanding, which were signed during His Excellency's visit to the United States last year, was also followed up."
According to the statement, al-Sudani praised "Lotus's efforts in sponsoring and holding forums and meetings, especially with the Iraqi private sector," stressing that "the government has made significant progress in various aspects of economic reform and commercial and banking digital transformation," pointing to the continuation of efforts to legislate the intellectual property law and introduce this concept into school curricula; In order to keep pace with global trade development.
Al-Sudani explained that “economic reforms have raised the level of foreign investment in Iraq, and that American companies are invited to participate in the development renaissance that Iraq is witnessing, and the attractive and business-friendly investment environment.”
For his part, Lutz, according to the statement, praised “the efforts of the Iraqi government in the field of reform, stressing the desire of many American companies to enter the Iraqi market, and to establish promising partnerships with the Iraqi private sector, and to contribute to development and expand the scope of commercial and investment activities.” LINK
Some “Iraq News” Posted by Clare at KTFA 1-25-2025
KTFA:
Clare: IBBC to Host Innovation Conference in Baghdad Next Month
1/25/2025 Baghdad –
The Iraqi-British Business Council-IBBC announced on Saturday that it will organize an innovation conference next month in the capital, Baghdad, This announcement follows a successful visit by Prime Minister Mohamed Shia’ al-Sudani to the United Kingdom.
In a report followed by the Iraqi News Agency (INA), IBBC stated that “Iraq is stable, its economy is expanding and diversifying to meet the needs of the people.
KTFA:
Clare: IBBC to Host Innovation Conference in Baghdad Next Month
1/25/2025 Baghdad –
The Iraqi-British Business Council-IBBC announced on Saturday that it will organize an innovation conference next month in the capital, Baghdad, This announcement follows a successful visit by Prime Minister Mohamed Shia’ al-Sudani to the United Kingdom.
In a report followed by the Iraqi News Agency (INA), IBBC stated that “Iraq is stable, its economy is expanding and diversifying to meet the needs of the people. IBBC have been asked by the Iraq Prime Minster, Mr Al Sudani, to hold a Baghdad conference on Innovation”.
“Following a successful visit to the UK by the Prime Minister and several of his top ministers, a significant trade deal was announced with UK and Iraq, estimated at $15bn, across several sectors, to include cutting edge technology and knowledge transfer to Iraq. Some of these companies will be speaking at the Baghdad conference and the conference is dedicated to the theme of delivering innovation,” the statement added.
The statement further noted,"The purpose of the conference will showcase how Iraq is currently delivering Innovation and what might be possible to do soon, with the help of the Uk and International partners. IBBC has several members already delivering innovative solutions and products in Iraq, which will be showcased at the conference. We will be examining the power of knowledge transfer across all the panels and discussing what Iraq needs to do to deliver this internally, and the benefits of delivering innovation successfully".
The statement elaborated that "In his paper on ‘ease of doing business in Iraq’ Professor Frank Gunter, who is speaking, pointed out that modernising and digitising the financial system, not only will enable swifter transactions, access to and international funds, but also reduce the opportunities for corruption. Both EY and Hogan Lovells will explain their work on modernising the Central bank systems of Iraq and consolidation among banks and banking reforms,”
Stressing that “1001 is a leading Anglo- Iraqi streaming company that has already signed up over 2 million subscribers, but it is focused on protecting Intellectual property in Iraq, and this is a new opportunity for Iraqis to produce content, derive income and tax receipts from subscriptions. We expect to be joined by companies discussing 5G technology, and provision of fast internet for the delivery of state-of-the-art communications and explaining the importance of cyber protection for Iraqi assets, communications, and defence”. LINK
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Clare: Minister of Trade: The 48th session of the Baghdad International Fair will be distinguished in terms of preparation, size and diversity of participation
1/25/2025 Baghdad /
Minister of Trade, Athir Dawood Al-Ghariri, confirmed that the 48th session of the Baghdad International Fair will be exceptional this year in terms of preparations, organization, and the size and diversity of participation compared to previous sessions.
Al-Ghariri pointed out, during an inspection tour conducted by the minister on Saturday evening to review the final preparations for the launch of the exhibition activities, scheduled to be held from February 1 to 7, under the patronage of the Prime Minister, and under the slogan "Investment - Development - Prosperity"; that the exhibition will represent an important platform to attract Arab and foreign investors, as meetings will be held for the public and private sectors on its sidelines, in addition to signing partnership contracts for projects in various fields.
The minister explained that "the exhibition will host participants from 20 Arab and foreign countries, with more than a thousand local and international companies, and the Sultanate of Oman is the guest of honor of the 48th session.
" Al-Ghariri stressed that "the new session will be characterized by innovative designs that include green spaces, modern pavilions, restaurants, fountains, and illuminated visual graphics, in addition to implementing new mechanisms for visitors' entry, in addition to organizing cultural and entertainment events and various competitions during the days of the exhibition."
At the end of the tour, the Minister directed the necessity of completing all preparations within the specified timeframes and with the combined efforts of everyone. LINK
Clare: Will spending be disrupted by delaying the budget amendment? A government advisor explains
1/24/2025
The financial advisor to the Prime Minister, Mazhar Muhammad Salih, explained the disbursement mechanism in the event that the amendment to the financial budget law is not approved.
Saleh told Al Furat News Agency: "There is a legal rule that stipulates that the special law restricts the general law, and since the Federal General Budget Law No. 13 of 2023 is the basis for legislation for the state budget for the year 2025 within the scope of the federal general budget legislation and is specialized for three years, there is no other text that adds to the suspension of work on it."
He added, "I also do not see that one article, which is 77/second, related to submitting tables related to estimates for implementing the 2025 budget and according to the required adjustments, will restrict work in implementing the general budget originally legislated in 2023 and resorting to Law No. 6 of 2019, as amended, and we mean the Federal Financial Management Law.
" Saleh continued, "Despite that, we do not see anything that hinders the submission of the state's general budget tables for the year 2025, as the financial authority has the ability and sufficient tools to submit them in the appropriate coming period and according to a broad technical consultation circle between the executive and legislative authorities and in a manner that serves the national interest of the country and the government program."
Saleh said that "government spending is proceeding normally, in addition to public revenues, and there is nothing restricting the elements of implementing the general budget, except for the amendment currently before the House of Representatives."
Raghad LINK
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Clare: Good news for Iraqi employees.. Parliamentary Finance announces the date of launching bonuses and promotions
1/24/2025
The Finance Committee in the Iraqi Council of Representatives clarified on Friday that it is waiting for the Iraqi government to send the 2025 budget schedules for approval, and while it expected the date for launching employee allowances and promotions according to the applicable timetable, it confirmed that allowances and promotions are a natural right of employees from the Ministry of Finance.
"The budget approved in 2023 is a three-year budget for the years (2023, 2024 and 2025), and the change that occurred as a first stage is the amendment to Article 12/Second/C only, which is regarding the resumption of oil exports from the Kurdistan Region with a capacity of 400 thousand barrels of oil, at a cost of extracting and transporting one barrel of $16 instead of $6, and this was read in the first reading, and the discussion remains in the second reading and then voting on the amendment, and after this amendment there are no other amendments to the budget," committee member, Moeen Al-Kadhimi, told Shafaq News Agency.
Al-Kadhimi added, "The Finance Committee is waiting, after the budget amendment is completed, for the government to send the budget tables that will show whether there are specific increases or otherwise."
Regarding employee bonuses and promotions, Al-Kadhimi explained, "This is related to the Ministry of Finance, which issued a statement suspending bonuses until the budget is approved, and according to the timetable in effect, bonuses may be added to employee salaries next February, which is a natural right of employees over the Ministry of Finance."
On January 17, the Iraqi Ministry of Finance confirmed that employees’ rights to bonuses and promotions are “fully preserved.”
The Ministry's media said in a statement received by Shafak News Agency, "Based on the Ministry of Finance's circular No. (555) for the year 2025, we would like to clarify that the procedures related to stopping the transfer of services, promotions, calculating contract services, press and legal services, and others, are regulatory procedures that are adopted annually to accurately determine financial allocations."
She added that "transferring services from one entity to another requires transferring allocations, which currently cannot be implemented due to the lack of 2025 budget schedules, as this allows knowing the financial allocations for each entity to ensure that there are no violations or imbalances in the financial distribution."
She explained that she is working to "ensure the regulation of government spending and determine the ceilings of financial allocations for ministries and entities not affiliated with a ministry, including the Kurdistan Region."
The ministry stressed, according to the statement, "the importance of following up on new appointments and knowing the numbers of direct and indirect employees to avoid any funding shortage and ensure that salaries are paid correctly during the current month of January."
The Ministry stressed that "employees' rights to bonuses and promotions are fully preserved, and that they are calculated in accordance with the Legal Department's Circular No. (7497) dated 3/9/2021, which is calculated from the date of entitlement and not from the date of issuance of the ministerial order."
The ministry noted that "the procedures for direct admission of top students and graduates for the year 2024, launched by the Federal Service Council, have not been fully completed, and their data is still being updated."
The ministry indicated that "most of the financial allocations for the new grades for the year 2024 were included in the schedules of the ministries' headquarters, but the actual direct actions and distribution took place at the level of the departments, and have not yet been sent to the Ministry of Finance. Therefore, the ministry is currently working on following up on the financial costs of the employees to include them correctly and to ensure that there is no shortage in the allocation from the 2025 estimates schedules." LINK
FRANK26…..1-24-25……BUDGET SCHEDULES
KTFA
Friday Night Conference Call
FRANK26…..1-24-25……BUDGET SCHEDULES
This video is in Frank’s and his team’s opinion only
Frank has stated he will no longer do public videos on the Iraqi dinar UNLESS it is Important, Prudent or Necessary.
Frank’s team is Walkingstick, Eddie in Iraq and guests
Playback Number: 605-313-5163 PIN: 156996#
KTFA
Friday Night Conference Call
FRANK26…..1-24-25……BUDGET SCHEDULES
This video is in Frank’s and his team’s opinion only
Frank has stated he will no longer do public videos on the Iraqi dinar UNLESS it is Important, Prudent or Necessary.
Frank’s team is Walkingstick, Eddie in Iraq and guests
Playback Number: 605-313-5163 PIN: 156996#
What Frank’s suit color’s mean…. FRANKS SUIT COLORS FOR CC'S..... WHITE = NEW INFO…. SILVER = INTEL FROZEN…. RED= HIGH ALERT… PURPLE=GUEST WITH US…. BLUE = AIR FORCE…. BLACK = GROUND/FF’S…. GREEN= MR OR FAB 4 ... GOLD = CHANGE
Iraq News Posted by Clare at KTFA 1-24-2025
KTFA
Clare: Raed Fahmy: Iraq is exposed to increasing economic pressures under the Trump administration
1/24/2025 Baghdad -
Iraq is facing increasing economic pressures under the administration of US President Donald Trump, Secretary of the Iraqi Communist Party, Raed Fahmi, said on Friday, calling on the government to reveal its plans to confront these risks. LINK
KTFA
Clare: Raed Fahmy: Iraq is exposed to increasing economic pressures under the Trump administration
1/24/2025 Baghdad -
Iraq is facing increasing economic pressures under the administration of US President Donald Trump, Secretary of the Iraqi Communist Party, Raed Fahmi, said on Friday, calling on the government to reveal its plans to confront these risks. LINK
Clare: Parliamentarian: The House of Representatives will pass a set of laws after approving the controversial ones
1/24/2025
A member of the House of Representatives expects a number of laws to be passed during the upcoming sessions after the approval of the controversial laws.
Khaled Hamad Allawi told Al Furat News Agency: "New laws will be passed in the coming period because all the remaining laws are considered simple compared to the previous laws passed."
He explained that "the general amnesty, personal status and property return laws are considered among the laws that were obstructing the work of the House of Representatives and were passed."
Raghad LINK
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Clare: Parliamentary Energy Reveals US Pressure to Pass Budget Amendment Law...and This is the Reason
1/23/2025 Baghdad
The Parliamentary Energy Committee revealed, on Thursday, American pressure to pass the amendment to the budget law.
The Deputy Chairman of the Energy and Natural Resources Committee in the House of Representatives, Adnan Al-Jaberi, said in an interview with the “Al-Mudawala” program, which is broadcast on “Al-Ahd” channel, that “most of the companies operating in the Kurdistan Region are American,” stressing that “the American administration is pressing to expedite the amendment of the budget law.”
He added, "The amendment of the budget aims to address the oil dispute between Baghdad and Erbil," indicating that "the amendment of Article 14 of the budget will lead to the appointment of about 12,000 employees on a contract basis."
He added, "The vote on amending the budget will lead to Baghdad's recognition of the oil contracts concluded by the region," explaining that "we proposed to the region to establish a national oil company affiliated with the federal Ministry of Oil."
He added, "We are seeking to amend Article 12 of the budget in a strict manner to prevent the region and the center from evading implementation." LINK
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Clare: Hanan Al-Fatlawi calls on Parliament to pass the budget amendment as quickly as the three laws were approved
1/24/2025 Baghdad
Head of the Irada bloc, MP Hanan Al-Fatlawi, called on the House of Representatives today, Friday, to pass the amendment to the three-year budget law with the same speed with which it passed the three laws.
Al-Fatlawi said in a tweet followed by "Mawazine News": "I call on the House of Representatives to pass the budget amendment with the same speed with which it passed the three laws within seconds."
She added, "Keeping the budget unamended means that the government will continue to pay one trillion dinars per month in salaries to the region, while companies in the region continue to produce 320,000 barrels per day (870 billion dinars per month) that are smuggled outside Iraq and sold at low prices, much lower than SOMO prices, in addition to Turkey demanding a fine of $24 million per month for not exporting oil through the Iraqi pipeline extending to Ceyhan." LINK
Clare: Al-Alaq: Baghdad Dialogue is a meeting point for visions and ideas that support security and development
1/24/2025 Baghdad
The Governor of the Central Bank, Ali Al-Alaq, confirmed today, Friday, that the Baghdad Dialogue is a meeting point for visions and ideas that support security and development.
Al-Alaq said in a statement received by "Al-Eqtisad News", "The Baghdad Dialogue, which is organized annually by the Iraqi Institute for Dialogue (IID), is a platform that brings together visions to enhance Iraq's regional and international role, and highlight its ability to host major events, to become a meeting point for visions and ideas that support security and development in Iraq, the region and the world."
It is noteworthy that the activities of the seventh Baghdad International Dialogue will be launched with the participation of an elite group of political, economic and academic figures from inside and outside Iraq on February 22, 2025. LINK
FRANK26…1-21-25……..LD’S AND A VOTE
KTFA
Tuesday Night Conference Call
FRANK26…1-21-25……..LD’S AND A VOTE
This video is in Frank’s and his team’s opinion only
Frank has stated he will no longer do public videos on the Iraqi dinar UNLESS it is Important, Prudent or Necessary.
Frank’s team is Walkingstick, Eddie in Iraq and guests
Playback Number: 605-313-5163 PIN: 156996#
KTFA
Tuesday Night Conference Call
FRANK26…1-21-25……..LD’S AND A VOTE
This video is in Frank’s and his team’s opinion only
Frank has stated he will no longer do public videos on the Iraqi dinar UNLESS it is Important, Prudent or Necessary.
Frank’s team is Walkingstick, Eddie in Iraq and guests
Playback Number: 605-313-5163 PIN: 156996#
What Frank’s suit color’s mean…. FRANKS SUIT COLORS FOR CC'S..... WHITE = NEW INFO…. SILVER = INTEL FROZEN…. RED= HIGH ALERT… PURPLE=GUEST WITH US…. BLUE = AIR FORCE…. BLACK = GROUND/FF’S…. GREEN= MR OR FAB 4 ... GOLD = CHANGE
FRANK26….1-17-25……..BANK OFFICER
KTFA
Friday Night Conference Call
FRANK26….1-17-25……..BANK OFFICER
This video is in Frank’s and his team’s opinion only
Frank has stated he will no longer do public videos on the Iraqi dinar UNLESS it is Important, Prudent or Necessary.
Frank’s team is Walkingstick, Eddie in Iraq and guests
Playback Number: 605-313-5163 PIN: 156996#
KTFA
Friday Night Conference Call
FRANK26….1-17-25……..BANK OFFICER
This video is in Frank’s and his team’s opinion only
Frank has stated he will no longer do public videos on the Iraqi dinar UNLESS it is Important, Prudent or Necessary.
Frank’s team is Walkingstick, Eddie in Iraq and guests
Playback Number: 605-313-5163 PIN: 156996#
What Frank’s suit color’s mean…. FRANKS SUIT COLORS FOR CC'S..... WHITE = NEW INFO…. SILVER = INTEL FROZEN…. RED= HIGH ALERT… PURPLE=GUEST WITH US…. BLUE = AIR FORCE…. BLACK = GROUND/FF’S…. GREEN= MR OR FAB 4 ... GOLD = CHANGE
The 10 most powerful currencies in the world.. Arab countries top the list
KTFA:
Clare: The 10 most powerful currencies in the world.. Arab countries top the list
1/16/2025
The strength of the currency is an important indicator of the health of the national economy, political stability, and the financial policies followed.
While many factors influence the value of currencies, sustained economic performance and institutional stability often determine a currency's standing in global markets.
KTFA:
Clare: The 10 most powerful currencies in the world.. Arab countries top the list
1/16/2025
The strength of the currency is an important indicator of the health of the national economy, political stability, and the financial policies followed.
While many factors influence the value of currencies, sustained economic performance and institutional stability often determine a currency's standing in global markets.
Understanding these dynamics is essential for investors who trade the foreign exchange market and analyze international financial trends.
The Bankrate website monitored, in a report reviewed by Al Arabiya Business, a list of the strongest currencies in the world.
1- Kuwaiti Dinar
The Kuwaiti Dinar is currently the strongest currency in the world, with traders getting 0.31 Kuwaiti Dinars for every US Dollar.
It is worth noting that Kuwait has about 7% of the world's oil reserves, which greatly supports the value of its currency.
2- Bahraini Dinar
The Bahraini Dinar is the second strongest currency in the world, with traders getting 0.38 Bahraini Dinars for every US Dollar.
Bahrain is an oil-rich country, which contributes significantly to the strength of its currency, and the attractive investment environment enhances the stability of the Bahraini dinar.
3- Omani Rial
The Omani Rial is the third strongest currency, with traders getting 0.39 Omani Rial per US Dollar.
Oman has been producing more than 1 million barrels of oil per day since the 1960s, boosting the value of its currency.
4- Jordanian Dinar
The Jordanian Dinar is a strong currency, ranking fourth, with traders getting 0.71 Jordanian Dinars for every US Dollar.
Although Jordan does not have huge oil reserves, its diverse resources such as minerals contribute to the strength of its currency.
5- British pound
The British pound is the fifth strongest currency in the world, with traders getting 0.82 pounds to the US dollar.
Sterling's long history and economic stability, as well as London's stability as a global financial centre, are factors contributing to its strength.
6- Gibraltar pound
The Gibraltar pound is pegged to the British pound in value, with traders receiving 0.82 Gibraltar pounds to the US dollar.
This currency is strongly linked to the pound sterling, along with Gibraltar's thriving tourism and financial sector, which boosts its value.
7- Cayman Islands Dollar
The Cayman Islands dollar ranks seventh, with traders getting 0.83 Cayman dollars to the US dollar.
The Cayman Islands' favourable tax regime, which lacks direct taxes, contributes to the strength of the currency, as well as the high economic activity.
8- Swiss Franc
The Swiss franc is the eighth most powerful currency in the world, with traders getting 0.92 Swiss francs per US dollar.
The Swiss franc is known as a safe haven for investors in times of international crises, as well as the stability of Swiss monetary policy.
9- Euro
The Euro is the ninth most powerful currency in the world, with traders getting 0.98 Euros per US Dollar.
The euro is used in 20 EU countries, which strengthens its strength, along with the presence of economically strong countries such as Germany and Spain.
10- US Dollar
Despite its global dominance, the US dollar is the tenth most powerful currency.
Since the end of World War II, the dollar has become the world's premier reserve currency, allowing the United States to borrow at low interest rates.
While the Kuwaiti dinar is the strongest currency, the Swiss franc is considered one of the most stable currencies thanks to Switzerland's political neutrality, low debt-to-GDP ratio, and conservative monetary policy. LINK
Some “Iraq News” Posted by Clare at KTFA 1-15-2025
KTFA
Clare: 21 Arab and foreign countries and 600 companies at Baghdad International Fair
1/14/2025
The activities of the Baghdad International Fair in its (48) session will start on the first of next February, with the active participation of 21 Arab and foreign countries and 600 companies with different specializations.
The Director General of the Ministry’s Exhibitions and Commercial Services Company, Dr. Mustafa Nizar Jumaa Al-Ani, said in an interview with “Al-Sabah” followed by “Al-Eqtisad News” that the exhibition will continue for seven days, and will be held under the slogan (Investment, Development, Prosperity).
KTFA
Clare: 21 Arab and foreign countries and 600 companies at Baghdad International Fair
1/14/2025
The activities of the Baghdad International Fair in its (48) session will start on the first of next February, with the active participation of 21 Arab and foreign countries and 600 companies with different specializations.
The Director General of the Ministry’s Exhibitions and Commercial Services Company, Dr. Mustafa Nizar Jumaa Al-Ani, said in an interview with “Al-Sabah” followed by “Al-Eqtisad News” that the exhibition will continue for seven days, and will be held under the slogan (Investment, Development, Prosperity).
He pointed out that the Ministry prepared early to hold the exhibition in its (48) session, as 21 Arab and foreign countries will participate in it, in addition to 600 local and international companies, indicating that the Ministry is still receiving requests to participate in this version, which is being continuously monitored by the Minister of Commerce.
He explained that the exhibition will include the two largest pavilions for the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and Oman, as well as the golden sponsor of the exhibition, represented by the State of Qatar, in addition to preparing two large halls dedicated to national industries that witnessed a remarkable turnout by visitors during the past year.
Al-Ani pointed out that the ministry provides support to national industries through the Export Fund, and urges local companies to develop exports and establish advanced factories that can meet local needs, especially after the government issued several decisions to support the national product by preventing the import of many materials provided by the industrial sector.
He added that the exhibition will also witness the participation of government institutions, unions and private sector organizations, with an ambition to attract a large number of companies in the current session, in an effort to conclude contracts between the private and international sectors.
He added that the exhibition is an important economic gateway and a social oasis that attracts the public, in light of the major economic changes that the country is witnessing as part of the government program.
Al-Ani stated that the aim of holding the exhibition is to enhance cooperation between local and international companies and provide investment opportunities. It also represents a platform for communication between foreign companies and investors to exchange experiences and learn about the latest technologies in all sectors, stressing that all participating companies will display their production and will have a share in the Iraqi market and contribute to all governorates. LINK
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Clare: Parliament postpones its session due to political blocs boycotting the sessions
1/15/2025
The House of Representatives failed, on Wednesday, once again to hold its regular session due to the boycott of most political blocs of the sessions .
A parliamentary source told Shafaq News Agency, "Parliament postponed its session due to the lack of a legal quorum due to the boycott of some political blocs and their failure to enter the council hall, despite the session bell ringing."
Recently, political circles in Iraq have witnessed a sharp escalation in disputes over a number of vital laws that are stalled within the parliament, most notably the general amnesty law, the retirement law, and others, which has led to the stumbling of many parliamentary sessions .
Yesterday, Tuesday, the media department of the Iraqi Council of Representatives published the agenda of the Council’s session that was scheduled for today .
According to the session agenda that was received by Shafaq News Agency, it included voting and reading several draft laws, most notably the Intelligence Service Law, and reading the proposed law amending the Retirement Law . LINK
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Clare: Al-Sudani: The volume of Arab and foreign investment in Iraq reached 63 billion dollars
1/15/2025
Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani confirmed on Wednesday that Iraq is open to various investment and development activities, noting that the volume of Arab and foreign investments in Iraq over two years reached $63 billion.
This came during his reception, on Tuesday evening, of representatives of 24 major British companies in various sectors and activities, in addition to a number of businessmen, in the presence of British government officials, on the sidelines of his official visit to the British capital, London.
At the beginning of the meeting, the Prime Minister welcomed the work of British companies in Iraq, stressing that the investment environment and business space have become open and attractive to various types of investment and development activities.
He pointed out that the meetings and agreements signed with the British side need to be translated into actions and steps, and that the most important part now falls on the companies.
He continued: "We have carried out real reforms in Iraq, and we have put in place real support facilities and procedures for the private sector. We have also implemented reforms in the tax and customs reality, company registration, and all approvals related to investment opportunities."
Al-Sudani added, saying: “For the first time, we provided sovereign guarantees to the private sector to implement projects, and today we signed with (UKEF) what is related to this step.”
He pointed out that "the government's steps aim to create a national industrial base, and the presence of British companies with the private sector will create real opportunities," adding: "Iraq has a three-year budget (2023-2024-2025), and has allocated $100 billion for the investment budget for ministries and governorates."
Al-Sudani pointed out the existence of "associated gas projects in most fields, and opportunities in the petrochemical industry," adding: "We have a fixed platform project for importing gas funded by the government, and there is a project for liquefied gas export platforms." LINK
Clare: During a meeting in London BAE Systems offers to open weapons production line in Iraq, Sudani welcomes
1/15/2025
Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani welcomed today, Wednesday, the offer submitted by BAE Systems to open weapons production lines in cooperation with the Military Industrialization Authority in Iraq, during his meeting with the company’s delegation at his residence in London.
Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani received today, Wednesday, at his residence in London, a delegation from BAE Systems, headed by the company's CEO, Mr. Charles Woodburn.
The meeting reviewed the nature of the company's work, which specializes in various types of military industries, in addition to its production of cybersecurity technologies and electronic systems, especially since the government is interested in arming the security forces with the latest weapons, from various sources.
During the meeting, possible aspects of cooperation with Iraq were discussed. His Excellency welcomed the offer made by the company’s CEO to open weapons production lines in cooperation with the Military Industrialization Authority in Iraq, as well as to provide services in the field of cybersecurity, especially since the Authority’s law helps establish partnerships with specialized foreign companies and expand technological cooperation with them. LINK
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Clare: Al-Sudani: I will present the British agreement to the Iraqi parliament
1/15/2025
Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani confirmed, on Wednesday, during his meeting with a press delegation, his intention to present the British agreement to the Iraqi parliament upon his return to Baghdad .
The Prime Minister's Office stated in a statement received by Shafaq News Agency that "Al-Sudani received at his residence in the capital, London, a group of senior editors-in-chief of Arab newspapers, opinion writers, and Arab and foreign journalists."
Al-Sudani spoke, according to the statement, about "his official visit to the United Kingdom and his meetings with King Charles III and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, and the importance and size of the security, economic and development agreements concluded during the visit," stressing that "the bilateral agreement will be presented to the House of Representatives for the purpose of ratification."
Al-Sudani pointed out, "The state of stability and prosperity that Iraq is experiencing despite the political fluctuations witnessed in the region, and the government's success in keeping Iraq out of regional conflicts, while adhering to the principled position regarding the aggression on Gaza and Lebanon."
He pointed out his political vision for the internal Iraqi situation, and his steps to maintain security and stability in Iraq and the region, stressing "Iraq's standing with the Syrian people in facing crises and challenges."
Al-Sudani also touched, according to the statement, on "the government's steps in the field of economic integration," noting "proceeding with electrical interconnection with neighboring countries, and establishing related stations, in addition to cooperation in the fields of real estate development, and building new cities, within a development renaissance planned by the government program and included strategic projects, and creating a transition in the infrastructure on which sustainable development depends."
In his speech, the Prime Minister pointed out "the signing of the contract between Iraq and British Petroleum, which is the largest in the region," stressing "Iraq's move to develop its oil industry, expand the production and export of oil derivatives, invest in Kirkuk fields, and reach full investment in associated gas." LINK
FRANK26….1-14-25……1…2…3…BOOM
KTFA
Tuesday Night Conference Call
FRANK26….1-14-25……1…2…3…BOOM
This video is in Frank’s and his team’s opinion only
Frank has stated he will no longer do public videos on the Iraqi dinar UNLESS it is Important, Prudent or Necessary.
Frank’s team is Walkingstick, Eddie in Iraq and guests
KTFA
Tuesday Night Conference Call
FRANK26….1-14-25……1…2…3…BOOM
This video is in Frank’s and his team’s opinion only
Frank has stated he will no longer do public videos on the Iraqi dinar UNLESS it is Important, Prudent or Necessary.
Frank’s team is Walkingstick, Eddie in Iraq and guests
Playback Number: 605-313-5163 PIN: 156996#
What Frank’s suit color’s mean…. FRANKS SUIT COLORS FOR CC'S..... WHITE = NEW INFO…. SILVER = INTEL FROZEN…. RED= HIGH ALERT… PURPLE=GUEST WITH US…. BLUE = AIR FORCE…. BLACK = GROUND/FF’S…. GREEN= MR OR FAB 4 ... GOLD = CHANGE
Some “Iraq News” Posted by Clare at KTFA 1-12-2025
KTFA:
Clare: Al-Sudani to pay official visit to UK tomorrow, Monday
An informed source reported today, Sunday (January 12, 2025), that Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani will pay an official visit to the United Kingdom tomorrow, Monday.
The source told Baghdad Today, "Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani will pay an official visit to Britain tomorrow, Monday."
He added that "Al-Sudani will discuss a number of important security, economic and investment files with the United Kingdom.
KTFA:
Clare: Al-Sudani to pay official visit to UK tomorrow, Monday
An informed source reported today, Sunday (January 12, 2025), that Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani will pay an official visit to the United Kingdom tomorrow, Monday.
The source told Baghdad Today, "Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani will pay an official visit to Britain tomorrow, Monday."
He added that "Al-Sudani will discuss a number of important security, economic and investment files with the United Kingdom. link
Clare: Trump's envoy on his way to Iraq.. A new message to Al-Sudani
1/11/2025
An informed political source revealed, on Saturday evening, an upcoming visit by the envoy of the US President-elect, Donald Trump, to Iraq, carrying with him a message to Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani.
According to the source, who spoke to Shafaq News Agency, "An American envoy is expected to arrive in Baghdad, carrying direct messages from Trump about the security of the region and Iraq's role in it."
The source explained that "the visit may be secret (not officially announced)," noting that the envoy will also discuss the details of Al-Sudani's recent visits, and Trump's vision according to the recent changes in the region.
An informed political source reported last week that the Iraqi Prime Minister received a message from US President-elect Donald Trump, via a special envoy on an unannounced visit, which included several axes .
According to the source, the most prominent axes are the necessity of containing and controlling weapons outside the framework of the state, stopping the activity of factions linked to Iran, in addition to Iraq not interfering in the Syrian file and supporting the formation of the new Syrian government .
Meanwhile, a government source told Shafaq News Agency that Iraq is working diligently to establish security in the region, and that the Prime Minister presented Iraq's vision in this regard during a visit to Iran .
Al-Sudani had made numerous visits to countries in the region after the fall of Bashar al-Assad's regime, including Jordan, Saudi Arabia, and recently Iran, where he discussed security issues with the leaders of these countries. Iraq also participated in the Aqaba Conference held in Jordan, with the participation of several countries, including the United States . LINK
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Clare: The Central Bank calls on banks to expand and expand ATM services and cash payment machines
1/12/2025 Baghdad -
The Central Bank of Iraq called on banks, on Sunday, to expand the spread of cash delivery outlets through all available channels such as ATMs, POC cash payment devices, as well as authorized exchange companies, electronic payment company outlets, and POS electronic payment devices spread throughout Iraq.
Central Bank statement, as reported to 964 Network :
The Central Bank of Iraq works within its strategy to provide various services to bank card holders, by expanding the spread of cash delivery outlets and through all available channels, including ATMs, POC cash payment devices, as well as authorized exchange companies, electronic payment company outlets, and POS electronic payment devices spread throughout Iraq.
The Central Bank confirms in its circulars that it directed banks and non-banking financial institutions to spread and expand their financial services in areas that lack the aforementioned services.
The bank seeks to develop these services by establishing the latest infrastructure for financial products and services in Iraq, and improving them continuously.
The Central Bank invites you to submit inquiries and complaints, if any, through the following link:
Clare: Central Bank of Iraq: We are working to provide ATMs in all regions
1/12/2025
The Central Bank of Iraq confirmed, on Sunday, that it is working to provide ATMs and cash payment machines, while indicating that it has directed all banks to spread their financial services in all regions.
The bank said in a statement received by Shafaq News Agency, "The Central Bank of Iraq is working within its strategy to provide various services to bank card holders, by expanding the spread of cash delivery outlets and through all available channels, including ATMs and POC cash payment devices , as well as authorized exchange companies, electronic payment company outlets, and POS electronic payment devices spread throughout Iraq."
He added that "the Central Bank confirmed in its circulars that it directed banks and non-banking financial institutions to spread and expand their financial services in areas that lack the aforementioned services."
He pointed out that "the bank seeks to develop these services by establishing the latest infrastructure for financial products and services in Iraq, and improving them continuously." LINK
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Clare: Currency smuggling.. Central Bank punishes 10 Iraqi banks due to foreign transfer violations
1/12/2025 Information/Baghdad…
MP Baqir Al-Saadi confirmed today, Sunday, that the Central Bank of Iraq issued penalties against ten Iraqi banks due to violations related to the foreign transfers file, which has become a direct threat to the local economy.
Al-Saadi said in a statement to Al-Maalouma Agency, "The file of smuggling hard currency outside Iraq is still a source of great concern, amidst multiple question marks about the mechanisms for implementing these operations, especially with the ongoing investigations into the commission of serious violations by exchange offices and banks in foreign transfers."
He added that "the penalties issued by the Central Bank against 10 banks so far come within the framework of reducing violations related to foreign transfers, which are considered one of the most prominent methods used to smuggle currency out of the country."
Al-Saadi pointed out that "currency smuggling has serious effects on the local economy and causes an increase in financial crises in the country," noting that "most of the transfers made for the purpose of smuggling go to one of the Gulf countries, which requires serious reconsideration and the implementation of strict measures to stop this ongoing bleeding."
The representative stressed that "the Iraqi Financial Institution is working seriously to address this problem by setting new criteria and re-evaluating the tools used in financial transactions, with the importance of revealing the results of the investigations to public opinion." LINK