Arab leaders will meet at the Arab Summit, hosted by the Arab League, during its 32nd session in Jeddah on May 19. As we gather amidst the challenges that have impacted our region, our participation in this summit is built upon a foundation of optimism. However, our attention remains keenly focused on the unfolding events in our brotherly nation of Sudan. The developments in this country present us with a significant challenge and pose a fundamental question: What responsibilities does the Arab League bear in a crisis?
The Arab League requires a cohesive strategy that fosters closer ties and shared ideas among Arab nations while effectively addressing and reconciling any differences that arise among its member states. This approach should align with the League's charter, aiming to bring benefits and peace to the peoples united under its banner. Taking proactive measures to intervene early in crises is of utmost importance as it helps prevent them from reaching irreversible and irreparable levels of escalation.
Iraq has consistently played a leading role in fostering unity among Arab nations and mitigating regional conflicts. Through patient and deliberate efforts, Iraq successfully paved the way for rapprochement between Saudi Arabia and Iran, resulting in a historic agreement between the two countries.
Simultaneously, Iraq stood out as a staunch advocate for Syria's return to the Arab League after years of absence. By resorting to diplomacy, Arab dialogue, and integration, Iraq significantly influenced the decision reached by Arab foreign ministers in Cairo on May 7 to welcome Damascus back to its rightful place within the Arab family.
With Syria's reinstatement to the Arab League, the region witnesses a healing of the fragmented image caused by past divisions. This return signifies the transition from a tumultuous period of brotherly discord that plagued Arab relations for years.
The stability of the Arab world relies on unified visions and on the imperative development of stronger economic ties between its nations. There is no place for political divisions, which hindered cooperation and allowed isolated countries to act outside the Arab community's framework.
Since assuming the leadership of the Iraqi government, we have recognized the significance of economic integration. We have extended a hand of brotherhood to our Arab counterparts in various political, economic, and sports forums. The Iraqi people have warmly welcomed their Arab brothers from all regions to the 25th Gulf Cup to reaffirm Iraq’s historical and pivotal role in advancing the Arab world and Middle East stability.
We held the Second Baghdad Summit in Jordan, where we met with Arab friends and brothers. We unequivocally declared that Iraq will never be a source of threat to its Arab and regional neighbors, but rather, we will make it a place for convergence and partnership built on economic integration to serve our countries.
During the Arab-Chinese Summit in Riyadh, we emphasized our commitment to building a robust Iraqi economy capable of achieving the desired transformative change. We envision Iraq as a hub for East-West convergence and integration, leveraging its strategic location, historical legacy, regional resources, and global economic influence.
In pursuit of this vision, we have initiated the strategic Road of Development project, connecting Al Faw Grand Port to the Turkish borders and Europe. Baghdad is preparing to host a meeting of transport ministers from the Gulf Cooperation Council countries, Iran, Türkiye, Syria, and Jordan, later this month to discuss and implement this vital project. This initiative aims to foster regional economic cooperation and serve the interests of these nations and their peoples.
We concluded a groundbreaking deal with TotalEnergies in partnership with Qatar, putting an end to decades of gas flaring in Iraq. This deal eliminates our gas imports, saving us billions of dollars annually and protecting our beloved environment from pollution. We further strengthened this achievement by concluding contracts for the fifth licensing round of oil and gas fields, with the participation of the Emirati Crescent Group Company, to enhance these vital sectors. Furthermore, we are currently making preparations to announce upcoming licensing rounds for gas exploration fields, opening new opportunities for investment.
Progress is evident in our projects for electricity interconnection with Saudi Arabia and Jordan. Furthermore, a security protocol has been concluded to monitor borders and exchange security information with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, marking a significant milestone in our bilateral relations since the 1980s.
We visited the United Arab Emirates to emphasize the importance of strengthening our ties and increasing commercial cooperation with our Emirati brothers. We have made considerable strides in resolving outstanding issues with our Kuwaiti brothers and neighbors, and we look forward to further partnerships in the security and energy sectors.
Our collaboration with Egypt spans several fields, with a joint committee meeting planned after our visit to Cairo. This visit exemplifies the depth of our relations, encompassing economic matters, regional affairs, and various Arab issues.
Diplomatic relations with Morocco have been fully restored, as evidenced by the reopening of their embassy in Baghdad after years of closure. We eagerly look forward to sharing experiences in combating extremism and terrorism and fostering economic, agricultural, and banking cooperation.
Iraq remains firmly committed to supporting the just cause of the Palestinian people, and Palestine is at the core of our foreign policy. We stand in solidarity with our Palestinian brothers in their pursuit of statehood, with Jerusalem as the capital.
Through economic, political, and sports collaboration, we exemplify Iraq's sincere aspiration to unite with its Arab brothers, fostering peace and prosperity for all our peoples within a shared framework. The Arab League can play a leading role in serving our nations, which has been its primary objective since its establishment.
