Iraqi PM discusses economic partnership with China
The Iraqi Prime Minister, Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani, the Chinese Ambassador to Iraq, Cui Wei, and other officials. Photo: PMO
Baghdad (IraqiNews.com) – The Iraqi Prime Minister, Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani, emphasized on Monday the need to support stability and sustain security in the region.
Al-Sudani’s remarks took place during his meeting with the Chinese Ambassador to Iraq, Cui Wei, where they discussed bilateral ties and reviewed strategies to develop the economic partnership between Iraq and China, according to a statement released by the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO).
The meeting addressed the participation of Chinese companies in Iraq’s strategic project, the Development Road.
The Iraqi Prime Minister indicated the significance of preventing the regional conflict from expanding by stopping the Israeli aggression against the Palestinians in Gaza.
In addition, Al-Sudani urged the international community to take accountability for Israel’s genocide against the Palestinian people.
Wei reaffirmed China’s efforts to improve cooperation, peace, sustainable development, and Iraqi-Chinese ties.
The Chinese Ambassador revealed earlier that his government would take part in the project after examining the project’s comprehensive details and economic feasibility.
Wei mentioned that Beijing is very interested in becoming involved in the project; thus, the embassy has already sent its economic counselor to the General Company for Iraqi Railways to find out more information about the specifics of the project.
The Chinese Ambassador to Iraq explained that China’s National Development and Reform Commission was officially authorized to communicate with the Iraqi Ministry of Transport regarding the project.
Wei explained that Beijing’s participation in the Development Road will reflect positively on the Iraqi side, indicating that China wants its relationship with Iraq to be more effective.
Many Arab, regional, and European countries have expressed their willingness to participate in Iraq’s Development Road project, either by pumping in investments or taking part in the construction works, as it constitutes an important link between Asia and Europe.
The value of the project is estimated at $17 billion. It will connect the Al-Faw Grand Port in southern Iraq to the border with Turkey by extending a railway and road network.
The project is expected to turn the country into a transit center by shortening the travel time between Asia and Europe in an attempt to compete with Egypt’s Suez Canal.