Baghdad: Hamid Al-Ghazi, Secretary-General of the Iraqi Cabinet, emphasized that the visit of Ali Falah Al-Zaydi, the Prime Minister of Iraq, to Berlin witnessed discussions on several files, especially strengthening economic partnerships between Iraq and Germany in the fields of energy, industry, transportation, and digital transformation.
Economic Talks in Berlin
Al-Ghazi announced in an interview with the Iraqi News Agency that the Prime Minister's program in Berlin included multiple meetings, and the Prime Minister of Iraq discussed a range of issues with the President of Germany, the Chancellor of the country, and the German Chamber of Commerce. The focus was on economic partnerships in several areas, including energy, especially oil and electricity, as well as industry, particularly pharmaceutical production and the establishment of medical complexes.
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Digital Transformation and Infrastructure
He added that these negotiations also covered the transportation sector, especially the development road project and the digital transformation file. Iraq has taken steps in the field of digital transformation infrastructure and is also working to establish a national data center. Al-Ghazi further explained that several Iraqi ministries have begun automating processes using Iraqi manpower, and some ministries are collaborating with reputable companies in this field.
Germany is known for its advancements in technology and has leading companies like SAP. Therefore, the Prime Minister of Iraq proposed to reputable and large German companies to enter the Iraqi market and transfer technology and experience to this country. Al-Ghazi emphasized that digital transformation will help simplify processes, reduce bureaucracy, delays, and corruption, and also increase government revenues, ultimately leading to greater citizen satisfaction.
Consequences of Regional Developments
Al-Ghazi spoke about the consequences of regional developments and the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, stating that the continuation of regional wars and the closure of the Strait of Hormuz would make Europe one of the regions most affected. Iraq is also among the countries that suffer the most in the region. Germany has also been one of the countries that has suffered significantly from the war between Russia and Ukraine, and this issue has impacted its economy.
The Prime Minister of Iraq also discussed with the Chancellor of Germany the possibility of German participation in a project related to the crude oil pipeline and the establishment of alternative routes for fuel transportation. This plan could be beneficial for both countries and strengthen their strategic economic partnership.
Facilitating Direct Flights Between Baghdad and Berlin
Al-Ghazi also mentioned the direct air route between Baghdad and Berlin, stating that the Prime Minister of Iraq has ordered that, in coordination with the Civil Aviation Authority and the Ministry of Transportation, the contract with international experts and consultants be exempted. This action is aimed at paving the way for the return of Iraqi flights to Europe. The Prime Minister is also continuously following up on this issue to lift the ban and implement the requirements.
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