FRANK26….12-23-24…….12-31-24…STOP

KTFA

Monday Night Conference Call

FRANK26….12-23-24…….12-31-24…STOP

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

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bqX0VzDWBXs

Some Iraq News Posted by Clare at KTFA 12-22-2024

KTFA:

Clare:  Kirkuk Governorate suspends official working hours next Wednesday

12/22/2024

Kirkuk Governor Ribwar Taha Mustafa decided to suspend official work in all Kirkuk departments and all schools next Wednesday, coinciding with the birth of Jesus Christ (peace be upon him).

A statement from his office, a copy of which was received by {Euphrates News}, stated: “The Governor of Kirkuk decided to suspend official work in all Kirkuk departments and all schools next Wednesday, coinciding with the birth of Jesus Christ (peace be upon him), while universities and colleges will continue to conduct semester exams based on the request of university presidents in all government institutions.”  LINK

Clare:  Trade Bank of Iraq: Temporarily suspending cash transfers

12/22/2024 Baghdad

Today, Sunday, the Trade Bank of Iraq (TBI) announced the suspension of all cash transfers to TBI.

The bank stated in a statement that: All cash transfers to TBI Bank have been suspended as of today until January 7, 2025, due to the annual inventory procedures and the end of the fiscal year.  LINK

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Clare:  Al-Sudani visits London in the middle of next month to discuss bilateral relations and attract British investments

12/22/2024  Baghdad - Economy News

An informed source told Al-Eqtisad News that Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani will visit the British capital, London, during the period from January 13 to 16, 2025. 

The source said that the visit will be at the head of a high-level government delegation, and aims to discuss bilateral relations between the two countries, and enhance opportunities for attracting British companies to invest and work in Iraq.

He added that the visit schedule includes Al-Sudani meeting with the Iraqi community in Britain, as well as meetings with a number of British officials, most notably Prime Minister Keir Starmer. This comes within the framework of the Iraqi government's efforts to consolidate international relations and open new horizons for investment and joint projects.  LINK

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Clare:  Al-Sudani returns to Baghdad after concluding his visit to Nineveh Governorate

12/22/2024

Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani returned to the capital, Baghdad, after concluding his visit to Nineveh Governorate.

According to a statement from his office, a copy of which was received by {Euphrates News}, “Al-Sudani’s visit to Nineveh included the following:  

- Launching the executive work on the North Thermal Power Plant Project/Phase One, with a capacity of (700 megawatts), out of the total project capacity of (1400 megawatts).

- Launching the executive work on the (local administration) stadium and indoor sports hall project, and directing to increase the stadium’s capacity. 

- Launching the executive works of the project to organize and rehabilitate the riverfront of the old city in the right side of Mosul.

- Field follow-up of the Mosul International Airport reconstruction project, which has reached more than 80% completion, and directing its opening in the coming month of June.

- Follow up on the ongoing work on the rehabilitation project of the ancient Nineveh Wall.

- Opening of the new Nineveh Governorate building.

- Announcing the launch of a series of new projects in Nineveh Governorate, including those related to infrastructure, the second phase of the ring road project, and the project to transform the military base in Qayyarah into a model base.

- Chairing a meeting of the leaders of the security and military services in the governorate.

- Meeting of tribal sheikhs and representatives of various components and nationalities in Nineveh LINK

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Clare:  Al-Sudani directs the opening of Mosul International Airport on June 10

12/22/2024

Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani directed the opening of Mosul International Airport on June 10.

This came during his field follow-up of the progress of work at Mosul International Airport, during his visit to Nineveh Governorate, which he arrived at this morning, according to a statement issued by Al-Sudani's media office.

The statement said that Al-Sudani was briefed on the work related to the construction of the airport runway and its various halls, the current completion rate of which is more than 80%. He also listened to the officials of the implementing company, and directed the removal of all obstacles that hinder their current work.

The statement added that Al-Sudani directed that the airport be opened on June 10, which marks the anniversary of the occupation of Mosul, to be a message of defiance in the face of terrorism.

Mosul Airport is one of the most important airports at the governorate level after Baghdad and Basra airports, and it was destroyed by ISIS in a systematic manner and at a rate of 100%.

According to a statement from Al-Sudani's office, the project encountered many technical and administrative problems, which were overcome with direct support from the Prime Minister.

The completion rate of the project, which is part of the regional development projects, did not exceed (30%) last March, and work progressed during the past eight months, reaching more than (80%), and all the conditions approved by the Civil Aviation Authority and the Air Navigation Company were implemented.  LINK

Clare:  The dollar market is on “one leg”.. A ​​new mechanism and the exchange rate is threatened!

12/22/2024

The Central Bank of Iraq is preparing to stop dealing with the electronic platform for dollar transfers abroad, at a time when experts have warned against raising the exchange rate to a higher level in light of the news circulating about this.

The electronic platform was launched in early 2023, and it represents a system for auditing dollar transfers before they are executed, instead of the audit that the US Federal Reserve used to conduct after execution.

Banks, companies and merchants in Iraq faced some challenges before adapting to the new method, but they finally underwent a series of trainings that the employees of these banks received before fully adapting to the platform’s work.

 Exchange rate hike

In light of these moves, news has been raised about a move towards a new adjustment to the exchange rate, which has raised economists’ concerns about the potential impact of this move on the economic process in general.

Experts stressed that sudden changes in monetary policy could create additional confusion in the markets and undermine confidence in the financial system.

Economic expert Mustafa Akram Hantoush said, “Changing the exchange rate in the current situation is useless, because the problem is not in purchasing power, but in the demand for the dollar outside the platform due to small traders, trade with Iran, and some materials that are imported outside the platform due to high customs duties or their ban, in addition to the citizens’ desire to save the dollar.”

Hantoush added to Al Jarida that “it is better to find solutions to the increasing demand for the dollar outside the platform instead of resorting to changing the exchange rate, because that will complicate the monetary situation even more than it is now.”

clear policy

According to an official at the Central Bank of Iraq, dealing with the dollar file was based on various opinions built on a series of studies and field research.

The official, who preferred to remain anonymous, explained to Al Jarida that “the bank adopted two main approaches to address the crisis. The first is to expand the use of international currencies such as the Chinese yuan, the Indian rupee, the UAE dirham, and finally the Saudi riyal, with the aim of reducing dependence on the dollar. The second approach focuses on developing the operational capabilities of local banks to become more qualified to participate in transfer operations.”

For his part, banking researcher Mahmoud Dagher explained that “the fluctuation of the Iraqi dinar exchange rate came as a result of two decisions to reduce the value of the dinar in 2020 and then raise it in 2023, which represents a clear intervention in the fixed exchange rate system, which created ongoing economic confusion.”

Dagher told Al Jarida that “any new change in the exchange rate reflects the absence of benefit from previous mistakes, as wrong interventions in monetary policy lead to adverse results that increase the instability of the financial market.”

As for the economic expert, Adi Al-Alawi, he confirmed that “the biggest mistake that the government can make is to manipulate the dollar exchange rate through sudden decisions, because that has a direct impact on the national economy and shakes investors’ confidence in the financial system.”

Al-Alawi added to Al-Jarida that “the government’s continued taking of ill-considered decisions regarding the exchange rate will lead to the erosion of international and local confidence in the Iraqi economy, which will weaken the ability to attract the investments necessary to improve the economic reality.”  LINK

Some Iraq News Posted by Clare at KTFA 12-21-2024

KTFA:

Clare:  The Currency of Iraq: A Comprehensive Guide

Introduction

The Iraqi Dinar (IQD) is the official currency of Iraq, serving as a critical component of the nation's economic infrastructure. For businesses, investors, and speculators alike, understanding the dynamics of the Dinar is essential for navigating Iraq's market.

The exchange rate of the Iraqi Dinar plays a pivotal role in shaping the country's trade and investment environment, influencing everything from the cost of imports and exports to the profitability of foreign investments.

Meanwhile, the currency has also garnered significant interest from speculators, who are drawn to the potential-however remote-of significant shifts in its value.

The current official exchange rates for the dinar can be found at the Central Bank of Iraq (CBI) website - https://cbi.iq/.

The Importance of the Exchange Rate for Trade and Investment

The exchange rate of the Iraqi Dinar is a key determinant of the country's economic competitiveness on the global stage. A stable and predictable exchange rate is vital for businesses engaged in international trade, as it impacts the cost of importing goods and services and the profitability of exporting to foreign markets. For foreign investors, the exchange rate is a crucial factor in determining the potential returns on investments in Iraq.

Fluctuations in the Dinar's value can significantly affect the cost of doing business, as well as the repatriation of profits. As such, understanding the factors that influence the Dinar's exchange rate-such as oil prices, political stability, and central bank policies-is essential for making informed business and investment decisions in Iraq.

Interest from Speculators

In recent years, the Iraqi Dinar has attracted attention from a specific group of financial actors: currency speculators. These individuals and entities buy and hold large amounts of Dinar in the hope that its value will appreciate dramatically, allowing them to sell it at a significant profit.

This speculative interest is often fuelled by rumours and theories about an imminent revaluation of the Dinar, despite the lack of credible evidence supporting such a scenario. Speculators are drawn to the high-risk, high-reward nature of currency trading, but it is important to note that such activities are highly speculative and carry substantial risks.   LINK

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Donald Trump and the "Great Iraqi Dinar Revaluation"

21st December 2024 in Iraq Banking & Finance News

By a Guest Blogger. Any opinions expressed are those of the author(s), and do not necessarily reflect the views of Iraq Business News.

Anecdotal evidence, including inquiries to Iraq Business News, seems to suggest that supporters of US President-elect Donald Trump are more likely to believe that the Iraqi currency, the Dinar (IQD), will increase in value by an unprecedented multiple, some saying by as much as 1,000-fold!

The correlation between being a Trump voter and believing in a significant revaluation of the Iraqi dinar (often called the "dinar RV" theory) is not rigorously studied, but there are social and cultural dynamics that might help explain the connection between the two groups.

The Dinar revaluation theory emerged after the 2003 Iraq War: The basic premise is that the Iraqi Dinar, which traded at around 3 IQD per USD before the 1991 Gulf War but crashed to roughly 1,310 IQD per USD, would suddenly revalue back to its previous rate or even higher. Believers often hold large quantities of physical Dinar notes, sometimes investing tens of thousands of dollars.

The theory's spread among Trump supporters was facilitated by several factors:

The "Global Reset" Narrative:

Many believers connected the Dinar revaluation to a broader theory about Trump leading a massive reorganization of the global financial system

This often tied into QAnon-adjacent beliefs about Trump secretly fighting a "deep state" that was suppressing the Dinar's true value

Some proponents claimed Trump and his team were directly involved in orchestrating a coming revaluation

Social Media Dynamics:

The theory spread rapidly through Facebook groups, YouTube channels, and forums that also shared pro-Trump content

Many of these platforms used similar language about "mainstream media suppression" of both Trump and the "truth" about the Dinar

Currency speculators and scammers actively targeted these communities, recognizing their receptiveness to anti-establishment financial narratives

Political Context:

The theory appealed to a desire for both financial windfall and validation of political beliefs

Some promoters claimed Trump's Middle East policies, particularly regarding Iraq and Saudi Arabia, would trigger the revaluation

The belief often aligned with broader skepticism of traditional financial institutions and expertise

Psychological Factors:

The combination of potential financial reward and political validation created a powerful motivational force

Believers often interpreted skepticism from financial experts as further evidence of a cover-up

The complexity of international currency markets made it easier for promoters to make plausible-sounding but false claims

Investment in the theory often strengthened social bonds within these communities, making it harder to abandon the belief

Despite years of failed predictions, the theory continues to circulate; some believers have modified the timeline but maintain their basic conviction. The persistence of this belief system despite contrary evidence and expert warnings illustrates how financial conspiracy theories can become deeply intertwined with political identity and resistant to contrary evidence. Both Trump supporters and proponents of the dinar revaluation theory often demonstrate a tendency toward belief in conspiracy theories or "hidden truths" that challenge mainstream narratives.

For more information on the Iraqi dinar, check out IBN's Dinar Page here: https://www.iraq-businessnews.com/the-dinar-page/?swcfpc=1    LINK

Clare:  Italian Defense Minister arrives in Baghdad

12/21/2024

Italian Defense Minister Guido Crosetto arrived in the capital, Baghdad, on Saturday, on an official visit to Iraq.

The Minister of Defense, Thabet Mohammed Al-Abbasi, received his Italian counterpart and the country's ambassador to Iraq, Nicolo Fontana, and the accompanying delegation at the ministry's headquarters in Baghdad.

An official reception ceremony was held for the guest, during which the national anthems of the Italian and Iraqi republics were played, according to a statement issued by the Iraqi Ministry of Defense.

During the meeting that brought together the two sides, he stressed Italy's efforts and its great role through the Italian experts and trainers present within the NATO mission and their support for Iraq through the training and development courses held for the Ministry of Defense cadres inside and outside Iraq.

During an expanded meeting attended by a number of senior leaders and officers in the ministry, the two parties discussed ways to develop future relations between Iraq and the Italian Republic, in addition to the two countries’ efforts to open avenues of joint cooperation in the future.  LINK

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Clare:  Renewing the Iraqi-Japanese partnership with $11 billion in loans for vital projects and development policy

12/21/2024

The United Nations Development Program and the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) office in Iraq renewed their long-standing partnership to promote social and economic development in Iraq through funding from the Government of Japan and JICA.

This partnership, which has spanned more than fifteen years of cooperation with the Government of Iraq, reflects the strong commitment of the United Nations Development Programme and the Government of Japan/JICA to meet Iraq's need for basic services and an efficient, stable and reliable economic infrastructure, according to a JICA report seen by Shafaq News Agency.

He added that this partnership has contributed significantly to human and economic growth in Iraq, in line with Iraq's national development plans and programmes that focus on economic diversification, infrastructure modernisation and improving social services.

In support of reconstruction and development, Iraq has received 36 ODA loans from the Japanese government and the Japan International Cooperation Agency, totaling about US$11 billion. These loans include 34 loans for vital sector projects and two development policy loans.

This development assistance aims to support Iraq in achieving its sustainable development goals, with a focus on improving living conditions nationwide and restoring infrastructure to promote inclusive growth.

“JICA remains committed to addressing development challenges with the Government of Iraq through this impactful partnership with UNDP. This partnership provides comprehensive support to Iraqi officials to achieve international standards in project management, combining technical expertise, capacity development and development finance. All of this aims to improve livelihoods and promote sustainable development in the country,” said Hiroshi Suzuki, Chief Representative of JICA in Iraq. Under this renewed partnership agreement, and in line with the Iraq National Development Plan 2024-2028, UNDP continues to provide critical support to the Government of Iraq to facilitate the smooth implementation of key socio-economic projects financed by JICA ODA loans. This support includes coordination at senior level, fiduciary supervision, progress monitoring, technical assistance, knowledge sharing and capacity development. Furthermore, by enhancing transparency, accountability and adherence to international standards, the partnership ensures the successful implementation of these vital projects.

“This renewed partnership between UNDP and JICA highlights our shared commitment to supporting Iraq’s development goals, with a focus on infrastructure development, sustainable economic growth and human capital. Together, we aim to facilitate the successful implementation of vital projects that will not only rebuild Iraq’s infrastructure, but also enhance long-term socio-economic resilience and improve the lives of Iraqis across the country,” said UNDP Resident Representative in Iraq, Auke Lootsma.

This unique and renewed partnership underscores the benefits of effective trilateral cooperation in promoting prosperity, driving sustainable growth, and improving service delivery and infrastructure for a stable and prosperous Iraq. It also highlights the strong ownership by the Government of Iraq and serves as a model for impactful and sustainable partnerships that can contribute to long-term development in Iraq.  LINK

FRANK26….12-19-24…..SHOCK AND AWE

KTFA

Thursday Night Conference Call

FRANK26….12-19-24…..SHOCK AND AWE

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

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dBDfDd_VsYY

Some Iraq News posted by Clare at KTFA 12-18-2024

KTFA:

Clare:  Al-Sudani arrives in Saudi Arabia and meets Bin Salman

12/18/2024

 Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani arrived in Saudi Arabia today, Wednesday.

This was stated by his media office in a brief statement received by Shafak News Agency, adding that Al-Sudani arrived in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, where he met in the city of Al-Ula with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud.   LINK

Clare:  Government Advisor: Iraq is out of the dangers of external debt and will pay the remainder until 2028

12/18/2024

The financial advisor to the Prime Minister, Mazhar Muhammad Salih, announced that Iraq has emerged from the dangers of external debt, and that it (Iraq) is a well-fortified country.

Saleh said in a press statement that: “After getting rid of the heavy burden of its debts, Iraq has transformed from a country indebted to others to a country that can be a creditor to others,” noting that “the country is called the ‘young creditor’ because it possesses a degree of youth in the economic aspect, which has raised its credit rating, despite the problems of the region.”

He added that "Iraq has gotten rid of the burden of external debts for the first time, which had shackled it economically," noting that "what remains of its debts to international parties constitutes less than (9) billion dollars that will be paid between now and the year (2028)."

Saleh explained that "debts are paid off through allocations in the federal general budget," noting that "the ratio of debts to the gross domestic product does not constitute a burden on the state, as it amounts to (5) percent of the gross domestic product."

He considered "Iraq a well-fortified country, in terms of external debts (in other words, it is outside the risks of external debts), which gives the country high credit at the present time," noting that "internal debts are confined within the (government banking) system."   LINK

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Clare:  After "fiery" statements by one of them.. Al-Sudani issues urgent directives to his advisors

12/18/2024

Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani directed advisors on Wednesday evening not to make any effort in press statements in a manner that violates the general contexts of state administration, by expressing personal opinions that do not represent the government, and not to appear or make statements to the media except with official approval .

According to a statement issued by Al-Sudani's office, and received by Shafaq News Agency, the Prime Minister "gave all advisors the choice between continuing their official work or giving up their positions and advisory positions, and thus they will be free to make statements that express their personal opinions."

Yesterday, Tuesday, the Prime Minister’s advisor, Ibrahim Al-Sumaidaie, revealed that the Iraqi government had received a clear request from international and regional parties regarding the necessity of dismantling the weapons of the armed factions, while warning of the danger of not responding to this request.    LINK

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Clare:  Al-Sudani directs the formation of a committee to prepare mechanisms for lending industrial projects

12/18/2024  Baghdad: Morning

Yesterday, Tuesday, Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani directed the formation of a joint committee to prepare mechanisms for lending to industrial projects.

A statement from his office, received by Al-Sabah, stated that "within the framework of government efforts aimed at supporting industrial projects, in a way that contributes to achieving sustainable development, strengthening the national economy and increasing job opportunities, the Prime Minister issued a directive to form a joint committee from the relevant authorities, which was responsible for preparing mechanisms for lending to industrial projects, and the necessary controls to determine the amounts of reservation and extinction of the guarantees provided for those loans."

He added that "the Cabinet's approval of the committee's recommendations was issued on December 9, 2024," noting that "the new instructions included implementing the Prime Minister's directives to provide loans with reduced interest and easy terms, with the aim of facilitating the establishment of new industrial projects, in cooperation with the main government banks, to ensure financial support for investors in the industrial sector."

He explained that "the government aims for the private sector to have a prominent and influential role in supporting industrial projects, by increasing its investments in this field, to establish and operate factories and develop new ideas that meet the needs of the local market, with the importance of bringing in expertise and modern technologies from specialized international companies," noting that "the government seeks practically and effectively to achieve the goal of developing industrial projects with environmental sustainability, and supporting society through social responsibility programs that companies and factories are committed to."

He added, "The government affirms its continuous efforts to enhance cooperation with the private sector, leading to a comprehensive industrial renaissance that achieves benefits for both sides, and for the national economy in general." LINK

Clare:  ILO reveals details of 4 trillion dinar initiative in Iraq

12/18/2024  Baghdad

The country coordinator of the International Labor Organization, Maha Kattaa, confirmed today, Wednesday, working with several Iraqi parties on the 4 trillion dinar initiative, while she pointed to 3 important projects being worked on in Iraq.

In a speech she gave at the 8th International Social Security Conference, attended by the correspondent of "Al-Eqtisad News", Qata'a said, "The International Labor Organization is working with the Ministry of Labor and other entities, including the Central Bank, the Iraqi Bank Guarantees Company, and a number of private banks through the 4 trillion dinar initiative."

She added: "The organization's approach is based on three axes, the most important of which is developing policies that support the development of the private sector, including developing the national policy for the development of small and medium enterprises."

The country coordinator explained: “We are working on developing a national employment policy and the importance of creating job opportunities. It must be a fundamental focus and the entry of young people into work in the private sector.”

The sector stressed: “Working on developing legislation such as the labor law, social security, occupational health and safety, trade union organization, and other laws that contribute to developing the private sector and small and medium enterprises.”

Regarding the projects that the organization is working on in Iraq, she pointed out “the development of small and medium-sized projects funded by Germany, and investing about 9 million euros, through the Iraqi Bank Guarantees Company, and contributing to the growth of small projects, granting them loans and creating decent job opportunities.”

She stressed that "the second project is to enhance financial inclusion, especially in refugee areas, such as the Afak project, which we started in 2021, and which is funded by the Dutch government."

“As for the third project, it will be in the southern regions and will focus on green businesses. The ILO is implementing these projects in partnership with other parties,” according to the ILO coordinator.   LINK

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Clare:  Article 140 Committee: Agreements to resolve the issue of agricultural lands in Kirkuk

12/18/2024

The head of the Article 140 Committee in Kirkuk, Babakir Siddiq, announced on Wednesday that agreements had been reached to resolve the problem of agricultural lands between Kurdish and Arab farmers in the province.

A friend told Shafaq News Agency, "Kirkuk Governor Ribwar Taha Fateh headed the Article 140 Committee to find solutions, especially after the disputes that took place in the Balkana Sarkaran areas in the Dibis district between the Kurds and Arabs over agricultural lands."

He added, "The Article Committee sent a committee to Kirkuk and held a meeting with the Director of Agriculture in Kirkuk and Kurdish and Arab farmers. A number of decisions were reached that will contribute to finding solutions for agricultural lands between Kurdish and Arab farmers. We will hold a meeting next Sunday with the head of the Article 140 Committee for the purpose of reaching decisions to resolve this problem, which contributes to the cultivation of the lands."

He added, "Some decisions of the dissolved Revolutionary Command Council require a decision from the Iraqi Parliament in order to cancel them and restore rights to their owners through legal methods and formulas that satisfy all parties."

Kirkuk Governor Ribwar Taha announced on Tuesday, November 12, that there are about 14 judicial decisions on agricultural areas of about 1,500 dunams, while there are no problems on about 18,000 dunams owned by Kurdish farmers.

Taha said in an interview with a number of media outlets, including Shafaq News Agency, that "the governorate administration held meetings with the Joint Operations Command and the commander of the 8th Division to address the problems of four agricultural districts in the district of Dibis (60 km northwest of Kirkuk), namely Bakana, Sarbshakh, Karbalak and Shinaga," explaining that "after discussions with farmers from both the Kurdish and Arab components, it became clear that there are 14 judicial decisions regarding 1,500 dunams, and everyone agreed to keep them pending until their issue is resolved." He added that "there are areas estimated at about 18,000 dunams that do not have any judicial problems or decisions preventing farmers from cultivating them, and their owners can cultivate them freely."

He pointed out that the Department of Agriculture in Kirkuk was contacted to identify the districts that have judicial decisions, with the aim of protecting these lands until their fate is decided, as well as identifying the lands that do not have disputes to encourage farmers to work in them.

For his part, Deputy Speaker of Parliament Shakhwan Abdullah revealed that everyone is working to return agricultural lands to their rightful owners, and all political blocs agree to pass the law that restores the rights of the Kurds and Turkmen.

Kirkuk Agriculture Director Zuhair Ali told Shafak News Agency that 300,000 dunums of agricultural land are still outside the agricultural plan in the governorate.

He added that these lands include the areas of Hanjir and Shawan, parts of Yaiji, Dibs and Daquq districts, explaining that farmers can file complaints through documents with the courts of first instance.

He pointed out that the Federal Supreme Court confirmed in 2019 the continued validity of Article 140 of the Iraqi Constitution, which aims to cancel the demographic change policies imposed by Saddam Hussein's regime, and implement statistical procedures and a referendum on the annexation of the disputed areas to the Kurdistan Region.

Article 140 stipulates the cancellation of the demographic change policies pursued by Saddam Hussein’s regime in the disputed areas in favor of the Arabs at the expense of the Kurds, and then a census of the population before the final step, which is to hold a referendum in which the population determines whether they wish to join the Kurdistan Region or remain under the administration of Baghdad.

The implementation stages of the article were scheduled to be completed by the end of 2007, but security and political problems prevented this.

In 2019, the Federal Supreme Court ruled that Article 140 of the Constitution of the Republic of Iraq would remain in effect, stressing that this would continue until its requirements were implemented and the goal of its legislation was achieved.   LINK

FRANK26…….12-16-24…….OBLIGATED

KTFA

Monday Night Conference Call

FRANK26…….12-16-24…….OBLIGATED

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

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IGSfFEBJqrM

“News and Views” Posted by Frank26 and Clare at KTFA

KTFA:

Frank26”  "AGAIN GOALS OF THE MONETARY REFORM SECURITY & STABILITY"......F26

 Opening of a dollar exchange outlet at Kirkuk International Airport

 12/22/2024  Kirkuk/

The Executive Director of Kirkuk International Airport, Abdul Samad Al-Kubaisi, opened an outlet to sell foreign currency (dollars) to travelers at the airport, at the official rate of 132 thousand dinars per 100 dollars.

Al-Kubaisi stressed: "The step of opening a new outlet at the airport will have positive effects, especially since it takes a short time for the traveler to get his need for dollars," noting: "The work of exchange companies at the airport will be monitored by the Central Bank of Iraq."   LINK

Frank26:  "BECAUSE OF A NEW EXCHANGE RATE, NOT BECAUSE OF A PROGRAM RATE".........F26

Governor of the Central Bank of Iraq receives a delegation from the International Finance Corporation

December 11, 2024

His Excellency the Governor of the Central Bank of Iraq, Mr. Ali Mohsen Al-Alaq, received a delegation from the International Finance Corporation, which included the Director of the Financial Sector of the Corporation in the region, Mr. Yousef Habash, and Mr. Bilal Al-Zughair, the Resident Representative in Iraq, the Financial Investment Officer, and the Head of the Advisory Department.

During the meeting, they discussed strengthening bilateral relations between the Central Bank of Iraq and the International Finance Corporation, the importance of cooperation between local banks and correspondent banks with technical support from the Corporation, and the development of Islamic banks operating in Iraq, in addition to the banking reforms carried out by the Bank in cooperation with the relevant authorities, especially the restructuring of government banks, and the role of international companies operating in this field (Ernst & Young and Oliver Wyman).

His Excellency the Governor discussed the proposal to establish a leasing company with local and foreign contributions, which is one of the financial systems used to provide financing for projects and individuals without the need to directly purchase assets such as machinery and industrial equipment, vehicles, offices, and warehouses. This proposal supports emerging projects and small and medium-sized companies looking for easy and flexible financing.

The meeting discussed the importance of launching Riyada Bank next year, which will support projects with small and medium-sized loans, in line with the government’s vision to support graduates and entrepreneurs and develop labor markets.

Central Bank of Iraq
Media Office
December 11, 2024

https://cbi.iq/news/view/2733

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Clare: Ministry of Transport announces that the completion rate of the development road project designs has increased to 63 percent

12/14/2024  Baghdad - WAA

The Ministry of Transport announced, today, Saturday, the completion rates of the strategic development road project, which is scheduled to open in 2029.

The Ministry's media office said in a statement received by the Iraqi News Agency (INA), "Accurate topographic survey operations have begun, extending from Al-Faw to the southeast of the Najaf Ashraf station, where an accurate topographic survey was conducted for the areas associated with passenger stations, container stations, storage stations, and ferries, including streams and rivers," noting that "the topographic survey is carried out using aerial photographs and surveying devices connected to satellites to ensure high accuracy."

He added that "the area ranges from 5 mm to 10 mm, and the survey includes all details related to the site to ensure proper planning for each part of the project, and that the topographic survey operations are scheduled to be completed to the Turkish border within the established timetables."

The media office confirmed that "the completion rates for the detailed designs phase of the railway line reached 64% and the land route 60%, while the cumulative completion rates for the detailed designs of the project reached 63%."
 
The statement indicated that "the development road, according to the designs, is at a distance that allows opportunities to connect the governorates to the project stations and benefit from both sides of the road, and the passage between the railway and land lines, while the Faw Port, which will be operated in 2025, will be used as a first phase, as it is an economic marine station for the project in addition to the presence of the industrial city, which will be the largest in the Middle East."

It indicated that "the Minister of Transport, Razzaq Muhaibis Al-Saadawi, directed the need to follow up on the work of the development road project, the first phase, which is known as the rehabilitation and re-operation phase of the current railway lines and preparing them to work in conjunction with the operation of the Grand Faw Port in 2025, and that the Italian company BTP provides consulting services regarding the first phase of the development road project (specific to rehabilitating the current railways), to be a strategic line ready for the safe transport of incoming cargo via railway lines, from the Grand Faw Port, which the ministry intends to operate in its first phase during the coming year."

It is noteworthy that the Ministry of Transport has developed integrated strategic plans for the transport sector with the development road project by land, rail, sea and air by linking airports to the development road project and benefiting from them by achieving integration that includes a number of operating and effective airports for the governorates located on the project, such as Basra Airport, Najaf Airport and Baghdad Airport, in addition to other airports that will be completed and opened in 2025, which are the airports of (Nasiriyah, Karbala, Mosul).   LINK

Clare:  Blinken: I was amazed when I arrived in Baghdad by the construction in Iraq and the vitality of the capital

12/14/2024  Baghdad - WAA 

US Secretary of State Anthony Blinken expressed his astonishment today, Saturday, after his recent visit to Baghdad, at the construction in Iraq and the vitality in the capital, while indicating that the Iraqi people deserve this development.

"I was amazed when I arrived in Baghdad by the construction and vitality of the capital," Blinken said in a speech to reporters after leaving Baghdad, as followed by the Iraqi News Agency (INA), indicating that "important work has been accomplished to ensure that Iraqis receive the necessary services to build a better life."

He pointed out that "it is impressive that these changes are happening, and the Iraqi people deserve this development."

Yesterday evening, Prime Minister Mohammed Shia received US Secretary of State Anthony Blinken and discussed with him bilateral relations between the two countries, ways to enhance joint cooperation, as well as discussing the situation in the region, developments in the current events in Syria, and the regional and international efforts required to enhance security in Syria and the stability of the entire region.   LINK

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Clare:  Al-Sudani: There are suspicions of corruption in all loan transactions in Iraq

12/14/2024

Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani acknowledged, on Saturday, that there were suspicions of corruption in financial loan transactions issued by Iraqi government banks.

In a speech he gave during the opening ceremony of the first Riyada Initiative Conference and Exhibition in the capital, Baghdad, Al-Sudani praised the role of banks in the process of lending to the youth participants in that initiative, adding that “let us admit that there are suspicions of corruption in all loan transactions, which we have reached in our previous experiences.”

He added, "We are facing a new reality and a new era for Iraq in which all its capabilities and natural resources that were not properly invested are invested, and these small projects will be the nucleus for other medium and large projects," noting that "most advanced industrial countries started with small projects and ended with large companies that sponsor a full spectrum of small companies."

Al-Sudani continued by saying: We are working on developing various sectors, and in partnership with foreign companies, the local product must be present, noting that “parts of the automobile industry can be manufactured in local workshops, and government banks will be present in supporting (Riyada) initiatives.”

The Prime Minister concluded his speech by saying: We have an integrated vision that starts with the youth to cover the needs of the local market for goods.   LINK

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Clare:  Iraq on the map of change" .. Expert: Expected international decisions will be taken before Trump's arrival

12/13/2024  Baghdad

Political affairs researcher Muhammad Ali Al-Hakim commented on Friday (December 13, 2024) on the call of the United Nations representative in Iraq to take new decisions that serve the current situation to avoid crises in Iraq.

Al-Hakim said in an interview with "Baghdad Today" that "the call of the UN representative after meeting the religious authority in Najaf to take new decisions that serve the situation in Iraq to avoid crises carries a clear message that Iraq is heading towards changes," noting that "there are important decisions that will be taken in the near future related to the changes taking place in the region, especially with Trump's imminent assumption of the presidency in the United States of America."

He added, "The unannounced visit of the US Secretary of State is to complete the upcoming changes in Iraq. There is international and UN movement towards Iraq, and for this reason the new phase will witness major changes on the internal level, as Iraq is part of the change in the map of the new Middle East."

Yesterday, Mohammad Redha, son of the supreme religious authority, Ali al-Sistani, received the representative of the Secretary-General of the United Nations, Mohammad al-Hassan, and his accompanying delegation, to discuss ways for Iraq to avoid any conflicts that would harm it.

This comes as US Secretary of State Anthony Blinken made a secret visit to Baghdad, where he met with Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani, to discuss the situation in the region and developments in Syria, stressing the commitment of the members of the international coalition to the security, sovereignty and stability of Iraq.  LINK

FRANK26….12-13-24……AKI…..CALLS ….TOMORROW

KTFA

Friday Night Conference Call

FRANK26….12-13-24……AKI…..CALLS ….TOMORROW

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

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dgmWlskf2f0

Some “ Iraq News” Posted by Clare at KTFA 12-12-2024

KTFA:

Clare:  With the participation of 80 companies.. Opening of the Iraq International Exhibition for Building and Construction

12/12/2024  Baghdad - WAA - Hassan Al-Fawaz

Baghdad Governor Abdul Mutalib Al-Alawi opened the Iraq International Exhibition for Construction, Building and Infrastructure today, Thursday, while pointing out that most of the participating companies are from the private sector, which is the main partner in the process of construction, reconstruction and development.

Baghdad Governor Abdul Mutalib Al-Alawi said during the opening of the Iraq International Exhibition for Construction, Building and Infrastructure to the Iraqi News Agency (INA): "Today we opened this exhibition, which contains materials involved in the field of construction and reconstruction taking place in Iraq in general and especially in the capital, Baghdad."

He added, "The products of these companies on display are made with the latest technologies and we are in dire need of them as Iraq is witnessing a major urban renaissance, in addition to the market's need for such products," noting that "most of the companies participating today are from the private sector, which is the main partner in the process of construction, reconstruction and development in general."

He explained that "these companies come to Baghdad and display their products, and they will have a share in the Iraqi market and contribute to development in all governorates."

For his part, the Assistant Director General of the Private Sector Development Department at the Ministry of Trade, Mohammed Hanoun, confirmed to the Iraqi News Agency (INA), that "Iraq is witnessing a major urban renaissance that requires international, Arab and Iraqi companies to participate in the process of construction, rehabilitation and reconstruction, as well as strengthening partnerships between the Iraqi and international private sectors and giving a realistic picture of what Iraq is witnessing in terms of reconstruction and building."

He pointed out that "international companies provide many construction materials that will in turn contribute to the construction process that Iraq is witnessing, noting that "this exhibition, in its third edition, is the largest in terms of the participating companies and the quality of the materials on display."

He added, "We aspire to achieve a partnership between the Iraqi and international private sectors, and for state institutions to benefit from this exhibition in a way that enhances development, construction, reconstruction and investment in Iraq."   LINK

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Clare:  The Securities Commission warns against dealing with fictitious companies claiming to provide stock trading services

12/12/2024  Baghdad

The Securities Commission warned citizens, on Thursday, against dealing with fictitious companies that claim to provide online stock trading services.

A statement by the Authority, seen by Al-Eqtisad News, quoted its Chairman, Faisal Al-Haims, as saying, “These misleading companies that publish their advertisements on social media sites aim to exploit and deceive citizens.”

Al-Haimas called on "citizens to invest in the Iraqi Stock Exchange, where there is a safe investment environment and companies licensed by the Commission, subject to strict controls and laws set to protect investors and guarantee their rights."

He added, "The Iraq Stock Exchange includes reliable companies operating in various sectors, and provides promising investment opportunities. We invite everyone to visit the official website of the Securities Commission to verify the companies authorized to trade."

The Authority indicated that it "continues to monitor the market and take the necessary measures against illegal entities," stressing "the importance of being accurate and avoiding dealing with suspicious entities."   LINK

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Clare:  Central Bank Governor: Opening external channels with foreign currencies to eliminate the black market

12/12/2024  Baghdad - WAA -

Governor of the Central Bank, Ali Al-Alaq, confirmed today, Thursday, that opening channels in foreign and Arab currencies achieves stability in the exchange rate and gradually eliminates the black market.

The media advisor of the Trade Bank of Iraq (TBI), Aqeel Al-Shuwaili, said in a statement received by the Iraqi News Agency (INA): "The governor of the Central Bank visited the Trade Bank of Iraq and appreciated the bank's efforts to expand its customer base of importing merchants and the procedures to facilitate their transactions in a way that contributes to achieving stability in the exchange market. "

The governor of the Central Bank stressed - according to the statement - the need to make efforts to achieve fluidity and provide the best banking services to the bank's customers.

The governor pointed out that "the Central Bank's continued opening of multiple external channels in foreign and Arab currencies achieves continuous stability in the exchange rate and gradually eliminates the black market."  LINK

Clare:  MP reveals movement to call for early elections: Ending the parliament that offers nothing to the people

12/12/2024

Independent MP Mohammed Al-Ziyadi revealed on Thursday that there is a desire to submit a request to the presidency of the House of Representatives to hold early elections and end the work of the current House of Representatives, indicating that the parliament was unable to legislate important disputed laws. 

Al-Ziyadi told Shafaq News Agency, "The House of Representatives, during the period of extending the legislative term, was unable to legislate important and disputed laws," stressing that "the heads of the political blocs were unable to manage the sessions." 

Al-Ziyadi continued: “If the legislative role of the House of Representatives continues to be disrupted after the holiday and in the next legislative session, we will collect signatures to demand early elections and the end of this council, which is no longer able to provide services to the citizen or the country.”

He explained, saying: “After the legislative holiday and in the next legislative session, we will submit a request to the Council Presidency to hold early elections for the House of Representatives by amending the elections law and setting a date for holding legislative elections in the country.”

The Iraqi Council of Representatives failed to hold its 20th regular session on Sunday, December 8, to vote on proposed laws, Personal Status Law No. 188 of 1959, the return of properties to their owners covered by some decisions of the dissolved Revolutionary Command Council, and the second amendment to the General Amnesty Law No. 27 of 2016.

Although the House of Representatives extended its legislative session for 30 days on November 7th to pass pending laws, the House was also unable to pass these controversial laws during the extension period, and thus they were postponed until the new legislative session.

The House of Representatives entered a legislative session recess after extending it for 30 days based on Article 58 of the Iraqi Constitution. Consequently, that period has ended and it has become obligatory to enter a recess from December 9 of this year to January 9, 2025, according to political researcher Saif Al-Saadi.   LINK

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Clare:  Blinken arrives in Jordan on Middle East tour to discuss Syrian crisis

12/12/2024

US Secretary of State Anthony Blinken arrived in Jordan on Thursday, starting a tour to discuss the crisis in Syria after the overthrow of Syrian regime President Bashar al-Assad.

US officials told reporters accompanying him that the outgoing Blinken will meet with Jordan's King Abdullah II and his foreign minister in the Red Sea city of Aqaba (about 325 kilometers south of Amman) as part of his efforts to have an "inclusive" process to select members of the next Syrian government.

Upon his arrival, Blinken headed to the meeting, and is scheduled to travel to Türkiye later today.

Blinken called for an "inclusive" process to form the next Syrian government that includes protecting minorities after opposition factions led by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham ended the rule of Bashar al-Assad, who belongs to the Alawite sect, which constitutes a minority in Syria.

The US State Department said in announcing Blinken's tour that he would call for an authority in Syria that does not provide "a base for terrorism or pose a threat to its neighbors," in reference to concerns expressed by both Turkey and Israel, which has carried out hundreds of airstrikes in the neighboring country in recent days.

State Department spokesman Matthew Miller said that during the discussions in Aqaba on the Red Sea, "Blinken will reiterate U.S. support for an inclusive transition to accountable and representative government."

It will also discuss "the need to respect the rights of minorities, facilitate the delivery of humanitarian aid, prevent Syria from becoming a base for terrorism or a threat to its neighbors, and ensure that chemical weapons stockpiles are secured and safely destroyed."

This is Blinken's twelfth visit to the Middle East since October 7, 2023, and the Hamas attack on Israel, which responded with a violent and destructive campaign that is still ongoing in the Gaza Strip.

Blinken's previous trip ended in disappointment after he failed to secure a deal in which Israel and Hamas would end the war in exchange for the release of hostages held in Gaza.

Blinken will leave office on January 20 with the administration of President Joe Biden.

President-elect Donald Trump has described the situation in Syria as a "chaos" and said the United States should not intervene, although he has not clarified U.S. policy since Assad's fall.   LINK

FRANK26….12-10-24……A FRANK EXPLANATION

KTFA

Tuesday Night Conference call

FRANK26….12-10-24……A FRANK EXPLANATION

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

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=edEZccTFlgk

Some Iraq News Posted by Clare at KTFA 12-10-2024

KTFA:

Clare:  Tomorrow, Wednesday... 146 diplomatic and international figures visit Basra

12/10/2024 Basra /

The Culture, Media and Tourism Committee of Basra Provincial Council announced that "the Ministry of Foreign Affairs will organize an exploratory trip to Basra Governorate, starting tomorrow, Wednesday, for three days. To view the achievements of major strategic and development projects.

The head of the committee, Aqil Al-Furaiji, said in a statement: "The trip will witness a wide diplomatic presence, as invitations were extended to about 146 official figures, including ambassadors, chargés d'affaires and representatives of international organizations such as the United Nations, the European Union and the World Bank.

He indicated that "Basra has today become a prominent destination at all levels due to its tangible successes in various fields, noting that the visit is an opportunity to acquaint diplomatic missions with the extent of the achievements and developments witnessed by the city."

He pointed out that: "The Ministers of Foreign Affairs and Transport will be part of the visiting delegation, and the guests will be received by the Governor of Basra. The local government has also prepared a comprehensive program that includes field trips to view the achievements of the major strategic and development projects that the governorate has recently witnessed.

Al-Furaiji said that: "These achievements have contributed to restoring Basra's historical luster and true identity, which has made it the focus of attention of countries, investors, international and Arab companies, intellectuals and visitors.  LINK

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Clare:  Iraq Development Fund announces imminent launch of 4 basic projects

12/10/2024  Baghdad - WAA - Hassan Al-Fawaz, 

Chairman of the Iraq Development Fund, Mohammed Al-Najjar, revealed today, Tuesday, the fund's future plans, while confirming the imminent launch of 4 basic projects.

Al-Najjar said in a statement to the Iraqi News Agency (INA): "The fund has spent the first year of its work arranging and organizing its affairs, given that it is a completely new experience in Iraq, and has no local backgrounds," noting that "international companies and institutions were hired to support it in this field."

He added, "During the second year, the focus was on 4 main projects that will be launched soon through (Ejr w Tamlik), and now we are ready to start the projects that we promised the public."

He pointed out that "during the coming period, new projects will be announced, approximately every month, with a new announcement," noting that "each project goes through preparation and study stages that may take from 6 to 7 months in order to reach convictions that these projects are good and serve citizens by preparing correct partners and financing because we work extensively with the private sector." 

He continued: "Soon, many projects will appear on the ground."   LINK

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Clare:  Bahr Al-Uloom: The government has allocated $100 billion to support major projects over three years

12/9/2024  Baghdad - WAA - Hassan Al-Fawaz

Undersecretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for Bilateral Relations, Mohammed Hussein Bahr Al-Ulum, stressed today, Monday, the importance of strengthening bilateral relations between Iraq and Greece, and while confirming that the government is proceeding with the development road project, he revealed that it has allocated a budget estimated at 100 billion dollars to support major strategic projects over 3 years.

"I am honored to welcome you to this Iraqi-Greek forum, which represents a milestone in the course of relations between our two friendly countries," Bahr al-Uloom said during his speech at the Iraqi-Greek forum in the capital Baghdad, attended by the correspondent of the Iraqi News Agency (INA), indicating that "organizing this forum reflects our joint commitment to strengthening the bonds of friendship and cooperation, and provides a valuable opportunity to exchange ideas and explore new horizons for a fruitful partnership that serves the interests of the two peoples."

He pointed out that "Iraqi-Greek relations are not new, but rather date back to the thirties of the last century, when Greek companies played an important role in the renaissance of Iraq, especially in the fields of infrastructure." 
Bahr al-Uloom stressed that "in light of the security and economic improvement that Iraq is witnessing today, we are ready to support a strong return of Greek companies to invest in the promising Iraqi market, which is full of diverse opportunities."

He explained that "the visit of the Greek delegation is a prominent station to strengthen bilateral relations in the economic field," noting that "during this visit, in-depth discussions were held with Iraqi officials on vital files, and promising understandings were reached that we hope will soon be translated into tangible projects that benefit both countries."

Bahr Al-Uloom stressed that "Iraq believes in the importance of real partnerships that are built on the basis of common interests, and we look forward to benefiting from the expertise of Greek companies and their pioneering trade."

Bahr Al-Uloom highlighted the ambitious vision of the Iraqi government, led by Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani, which aims to develop the Iraqi economy by supporting the private sector and stimulating foreign investment. He explained that “the government has launched initiatives, including the Iraqi Development Fund to attract foreign investments in cooperation with prestigious international funds, in addition to providing sovereign guarantees to support the private sector in implementing these projects.”

He pointed out that “the government has allocated a budget estimated at $100 billion over three years to implement major infrastructure projects, and this is a suitable ground for the participation of Greek companies,” noting that “the government is proceeding with the strategic development road project that links the East and West at the lowest cost and establishes new economic cities in Iraq.”

Bahr Al-Uloom explained that “the government plans to build one million new housing units, which provides wide areas for international companies, in addition to opportunities in the energy sector, as Iraq produces 4 million barrels of oil per day and ranks third in production. It also has large gas reserves, and aims to develop its production in this field over the next five years.”

Bahr Al-Uloom stressed that “Iraq seeks to develop the pharmaceutical and food industries with annual needs It exceeds 3 billion dollars," noting that "Iraq, thanks to its security stability and economic vision, is a reliable strategic partner for Greek companies."  LINK

Clare: Al-Bandawi: Our borders with Syria are secure and what happened in 2014 will never happen again

12/10/2024  

 Member of the Parliamentary Security and Defense Committee, Ali Al Bandawi, confirmed that the Iraqi border with the Syrian side is “secure and cannot be penetrated.”

Al-Bandawi told Al-Furat News Agency: "The Iraqi-Syrian border is 100% secure. We visited the Border Guard Forces Command and met with the security leaders in the presence of the Minister of Interior. We were assured of the border situation thanks to the deployment of security forces, the procedures of placing concrete, digging a trench 4 meters wide and 3 meters deep, distributing barbed wire, watchtowers, thermal cameras, drones and intelligence efforts."
He added, "Behind these procedures are the Ministry of Defense forces from various army formations and then the Popular Mobilization Forces."

Al-Bandawi pointed out that "the border is secure and we assure the Iraqi people that the border is solid and there will be no entry of any ISIS terrorist element or other terrorist groups as happened in 2014 and that this event will never be repeated."

Raghad  LINK

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Clare:  Prime Minister: Victory Day has become a milestone in our people's journey

12/9/2024  Baghdad - WAA 

Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani confirmed today, Monday, that Victory Day is a day when all Iraqis are proud of what they achieved 7 years ago in a resounding victory over the defeated ISIS gangs, stressing that Victory Day has become a milestone in the path of our people.  

The Prime Minister said in a speech on the occasion of Victory Day - followed by the Iraqi News Agency (INA): "We remember a day when all Iraqis are proud of what they achieved 7 years ago in a resounding victory over the defeated ISIS gangs," indicating that "Victory Day has become a milestone in the journey of our people."

The Prime Minister added that "the first thing we remember on this day is that victory has become a reality that we boast about throughout history thanks to the sacrifices of the martyrs and the wounded and supported by the supreme authority with its blessed fatwa," explaining that "friends and brothers stood with us in the face of terrorism; because the Iraqis fought on behalf of the world."

The Prime Minister stressed that "the victory of the Iraqis is the victory of humanity in the face of the threat that terrified the region and the world," adding that "terrorism no longer has a foothold on the land of Iraq today and its remnants have nothing but defeat and flight before our armed forces."

He explained that "our forces crush terrorists wherever they find them," indicating that "there are still those who are waiting for opportunities, delusional, to breathe life into the remaining terrorists."
The Prime Minister continued, "We must continue to confront alien ideas and everything that destroys our social and cultural values," explaining, "We must address all the gaps that enabled terrorism to infiltrate in 2014."

The Prime Minister stressed that "our Iraq emerged strong, healthy, victorious and determined to build, reconstruct and develop," adding, "We have continued to support and extend the power of law, achieve justice, reconstruct liberated areas, support their people and return all their residents to their land."

He pointed out that "the victory of the Iraqis over the defeated ISIS gangs is a confirmation of the importance of the unity of our people," stressing the need to "warn against the danger of suspicious calls that aim to obstruct the wheel of life that the heroes of victory created with their sacrifices."
The Prime Minister explained that "Iraqi cities have become a workshop for reconstruction and progress," warning against the consequences of "fueling conflicts that produce more destruction and causes of wars."

The Prime Minister continued, "Today, we are following the events in neighboring Syria and we are hopeful that the countries of the region and the world will assume responsibility to preserve the security and sovereignty of Syria," stressing, "the necessity of leaving the choice to the Syrian people and respecting their free will, along with the international responsibility to preserve the unity of Syrian territory and protect diversity."

The Prime Minister concluded his speech, "Terrorism came to Iraq across the border and we defeated it with great sacrifices."  LINK