Your Excellency Prime Minister of Iraq, Mr. Mohammed Shia’ Al-Sudani,
Distinguished guests,
Peace be upon you all.
I am pleased to participate in the Seventh Baghdad International Dialogue Conference — a conference that reflects Iraq’s vision of openness, regional integration, and a commitment to joint action for stability and sustainable development.
Ladies and gentlemen,
Iraq and the broader region are undergoing a phase of profound strategic transformation — one that demands cooperation and partnership rather than conflict and further complexity. In this context, the Development Road Project emerges as a historic initiative and step forward toward building a more stable Iraq based on a diversified economy, regional openness, and integration with neighboring countries.
We in the Kurdistan Region have always believed that the political and economic prosperity of all Iraq is a shared national interest, and that true development cannot be achieved without full integration between Baghdad and Erbil, as well as between Iraq and its regional and global surroundings.
Accordingly, we reaffirm our full support for this grand project. We hope it will become a model of constructive cooperation among all regions and components of the country — from Zakho to Faw — as well as between Iraq and its regional and international partners.
With its strategic geographic location and wealth of natural and human resources, Iraq possesses a significant opportunity to become a dynamic economic hub in the region, and a vital bridge connecting the Gulf to Europe and East to West. However, success in this endeavor requires several key foundations:
- A robust legal and economic framework that consistently encourages both domestic and foreign investment and provides a stimulating and attractive investment climate.
- A responsible political dialogue among all political actors and components of Iraq based on genuine partnership, understanding, and agreement — aimed at solving national issues with a spirit of patriotism. It also requires the strengthening of constitutional institutions and the full implementation of the federal system.
- A strong and cohesive security strategy to ensure long-term stability, granting investors confidence and peace of mind. This would enable Iraq to implement major infrastructure projects across all sectors.
It is also essential that Iraq becomes an inclusive homeland for all, without discrimination — a model of genuine partnership among Iraqis of all ethnicities, religions, and sects throughout the country, contributing to the economic development of all of Iraq.
The diversity of Iraqi society is a source of strength and wealth. Iraq can turn this project into an opportunity to overcome ethnic, religious, and sectarian differences, making it a powerful asset for the whole country that enhances Iraq’s standing economically, politically, and strategically. It is also a meaningful step toward building a brighter future for all Iraqis.
Thus, our support for this project in the Kurdistan Region is not only from an economic perspective, but also from a strategic one. For us, it is a step toward reinforcing the concept of Iraq as an active state in internal and regional stability and as an influential economic force in the Middle East — and potentially a global economic power in the future.
Distinguished attendees,
We have learned from the past that development and progress can only be achieved in a stable environment. Iraq’s stability cannot be separated from that of the region. Therefore, our approach to geopolitical shifts must be rooted in moderation, cooperation, and shared interests.
We emphasize the importance of continuing the effective diplomatic approach adopted by the Iraqi government to strengthen its relations. In this regard, I find it essential to renew my thanks to the Prime Minister for his efforts and initiatives. He has demonstrated that Iraq can be a bridge — not a battleground — for regional rivalries.
Yes, challenges exist. But at the same time, Iraq, with its human and natural resources, is full of opportunities. Our success hinges on our ability to manage internal diversity, promote a spirit of partnership, establish the foundations of good governance, and reinforce political and economic stability.
We need consistent plans, serious political will, and wise strategic partnerships. This conference is an important step in that direction.
I thank the Iraqi Institute for organizing this conference. I wish its proceedings success and hope it produces fruitful recommendations that help chart a clear roadmap toward a brighter future for Iraq.
Thank you very much.
Wishing you all the best and a warm welcome once again.
Thank you.