By John Lee.
Iraq's Prime Minister has used the UN General Assembly to call on international investors to engage with the country, citing its energy resources, strategic location, and ongoing economic reforms.
Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi, addressing the General Debate of the UN General Assembly's 81st session in New York, said Iraq aims to become a global hub for energy production and a bridge for regional dialogue and cooperation. According to the state-run Iraqi News Agency (INA), he told the assembly:
"From the podium of the United Nations, we say to the world: invest with Iraq, for it has the resources, the market, the location and the will to build a new economy."
Al-Zaidi said Iraq is working to diversify its oil export outlets and to develop energy corridors linking the country with Türkiye, Jordan and Syria. He highlighted the Development Road project as a strategic trade corridor connecting Al Faw Grand Port through Türkiye to Europe.
He said the international coalition's military mission in Iraq is now complete, and that the country is moving its relationship with strategic partners into a new phase focused on economic and development cooperation.
Al-Zaidi also addressed institutional reform, saying the government is pursuing anti-corruption measures and reforms to improve public services and attract domestic and foreign investment. He pointed to challenges from desertification and water scarcity affecting food security, calling for shared management of water resources in accordance with international law.
Full text of Prime Minister's address (Arabic)
(Sources: UN News / PMO)
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