In the Name of God, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful
“Connectivity for Development and Regional Stability”
Your Excellency, Prime Minister Mr. Mohammed Shia’ Al-Sudani,
Distinguished Guests, Ladies and Gentlemen,
Honorable Attendees,
Peace be upon you.
Another proud Baghdadi morning gathers us, filled with achievement, stability, and optimism, as we embark on a new Baghdad dialogue for peace.
In an era marked by conflicts, dialogue, communication, and understanding have become defining characteristics of Iraq’s diplomacy. Iraq has strengthened its diplomatic presence and expanded its international relations by adopting a balanced foreign policy, steering clear of polarization and instead charting a path that ensures balanced relationships while maintaining its national values and principles.
Iraq continues to consolidate its role in fostering stability and in achieving victory over terrorism, while reinforcing its presence in reconstruction efforts and integrating national interests into its foreign policy. The country has demonstrated its ability to utilize a balanced diplomatic approach to resolve crises and promote stability, guided by a vision that enables it to play an active role in the region.
Iraq has shown wisdom in handling regional events, particularly by providing humanitarian support to those affected by recent crises, especially in Gaza and Lebanon. Iraq has actively called for adherence to international conventions, promoted peaceful approaches, rejected oppression policies, and taken concrete actions to halt bloodshed by delivering urgent aid to civilians. Furthermore, Iraq has sought to leverage its positive relationships with regional and international actors to contain crises and prevent the escalation of conflicts.
Iraq has proven its ability to balance its deep-rooted historical values with the responsibility of defending them, while also safeguarding its national interests as a state striving for security, stability, and prosperity for its people. The Iraqi people have repeatedly demonstrated that the wisest strategy lies in skillfully achieving interests through dialogue, understanding, and active listening—rather than through violence, conflict, or force.
This prudent approach has led Iraq to adopt forward-thinking strategies that align with evolving geopolitical changes, enhancing its ability to navigate global transformations with agility and efficiency. As a result, Iraq has not only succeeded in protecting its own interests, but has also emerged as a key player and mediator in resolving regional crises, solidifying its status as a country capable of influencing events positively and reinforcing stability.
Achieving a strategic transformation that aligns with the shifting geopolitical landscape remains a key pillar in Iraq’s institutional development, particularly for think tanks and research centers. With its evolving democratic experience, Iraq is increasingly capable of leveraging its unique geographical position to strengthen regional partnerships.
In this context, optimizing Iraq’s geopolitical role requires adopting a productive diplomacy that prioritizes shared interests and investment in regional stability. A prime example of this transformation is the Development Road Project, which is not merely a logistical corridor but a milestone in Iraq’s pursuit of economic growth and stability. For the first time, Iraq is championing a developmental initiative of this magnitude, making it a cornerstone of sustainable economic diversification beyond oil, positioning Iraq as an economic hub connecting East and West, and contributing to sustainable development for all.
In line with strengthening the role of think tanks in diplomacy, the seventh edition of the Baghdad Dialogue reaffirms Iraq’s commitment to its evolving democratic experience, economic progress, and new strategic visions that enhance security, stability, and development.
As global challenges intensify, Baghdad Dialogue serves as a vital platform where leading minds come together to seek solutions for peace, security, stability, and development. The conference aims to formulate theories that shield the world from the devastating consequences of wars, conflicts, and crises—whether man-made, environmental, or technological.
This event reflects Iraq’s pivotal role as a nation committed to deepening its democratic experience, particularly with its upcoming elections this year. Iraq continues to be an active participant in international dialogues, offering solutions that promote global cooperation and supporting efforts to build a more stable and sustainable future for all.