Thursday, April 1, 2021

WOTS THU MAR APR 1 21

WOTS THU MAR APR 1 21

Probably no posts tomorrow  it is Good Friday and the markets are closed  just a heads up!



These are the articles I discussed on the My FX Buddies pocast at: https://anchor.fm/dashboard/episode/eu2ftf


Saleh blesses the approval of the budget and stresses the entitlement to implement it

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Barham Salih,

we congratulate the vote on the budget, and we salute the tireless work between the government and parliament, and we hope that it meets the aspirations of our people for better living conditions.

In front of us now is the entitlement to implement in a way that guarantees the interests of citizens and rebuild the nation, and to take maximum measures to support low-income classes, provide job opportunities for our youth, and combat corruption.


Sairoun: The budget will be sent to the Presidency of the Republic within 48 hours for the purpose of approval

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The Saeron Alliance announced, on Thursday, that the budget law voted on will be sent to the Presidency of the Republic within the next 48 hours for the purpose of approval and entry into force.

The deputy, Badr Al-Ziyadi, said to / the information / that "the Presidency of Parliament directed to reprint the draft budget in accordance with the latest amendments, additions and deletions that took place in the voting session yesterday."

He added that "after its completion, it will be sent to the Presidency of the Republic within 48 hours for the purpose of approval," noting that "it will be sent to publication after approval in the Official Gazette, and then it will enter into force."

Al-Ziyadi explained that "the exchange law will take effect from the first of January at the beginning of this year."

On Wednesday, the House of Representatives voted on the budget bill. 


The US Embassy welcomes the approval of the budget: We look forward to continuing our partnership

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We are pleased that Iraq has approved the 2021 budget and can now move forward on the path of implementing economic reforms that will lead to greater prosperity and security. The United States looks forward to continuing our partnership with Iraq and the Iraqi people.  

The American Embassy 

Central Bank Governor: Iraq is implementing its reform plans

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Governor of the Central Bank, Mustafa Ghaleb Makhaif, confirmed, on Thursday, that Iraq is implementing its reform plans.
The Central Bank said in a statement that Mawazine News received a copy of, that "his governor participated, as a representative of Iraq, in the spring meetings of the International Monetary Fund."
Frightening stressed during a speech delivered at the meeting, "Iraq is implementing its reform plans towards fiscal and monetary policy."
He pointed out, "The Corona pandemic was and still is one of the obstacles facing the Iraqi economy despite the proactive measures that the central bank or the government worked on," stressing, "the country's keenness on international and regional openness in a way that serves Iraq's economic and financial interests."

 

 

another version
Central Bank Governor Mustafa Ghaleb Makheif confirmed, today, Thursday, that Iraq is implementing its reform plans.

The Central Bank of Iraq said in a statement received by the "Tigris", that "the Governor of the Central Bank of Iraq, Mustafa Ghaleb Mkhaif, participated as a representative of Iraq in the spring meetings of the International Monetary Fund."

During a speech at the meeting, fearsome confirmed that Iraq is continuing to implement its reform plans towards fiscal and monetary policy. ”The

governor noted, according to the statement, that“ the Corona pandemic was and still is one of the obstacles facing the Iraqi economy despite the pre-emptive measures that the central bank or the government worked on, ”stressing. The country's keenness on international and regional openness to serve Iraq's economic and financial interests


THE IRAQI PARLIAMENT FIXES THE PRICE OF 1450 TO EXCHANGE THE DOLLAR

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Baghdad-Al-Sharqiya April 1: The Iraqi Council of Representatives voted on the draft federal budget law for the two thousand and twenty-one fiscal years, after months of controversy and political debates. The House of Representatives fixed the exchange rate in the budget at one thousand four hundred and fifty dinars per dollar after it voted on the first article of the bill, which includes adopting the price of a barrel of oil at forty-five dollars. The Council also voted to delete Article Twenty of the Budget Law on imposing an income tax and deduction from the salaries of employees and retirees, in addition to deleting Article thirty-eight of the law relating to the expansion of opening the door to investment with participation between state departments, ministries and the private sector. Parliament voted to delete Article 42 on tourism, commercial, and service projects, and Article 43 for real estate sales, as well as Article forty-seven on corporate assets


Finance Minister: The change in the dollar’s ​​exchange will continue for a long time, and this is his expectation of the flotation

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The Minister of Finance, Ali Allawi, said that the change of the dollar’s ​​exchange rate will continue for a long time.

On the recent devaluation of the Iraqi dinar by the government and the Central Bank, Allawi said in a press statement that "negative expectations on commodity price levels were expected and what happened came less than expected, but it was a necessary step for years due to its importance in structuring the economy and reducing the bill to support the dinar," He explained, "The negative effects of the devaluation gradually fade away."

He added, "The current price of the Iraqi currency against the US dollar after reducing its value will continue for a long time, and a full float may occur in the future, but the central bank will now work to maintain the current exchange rate level for as long as possible."

It is noteworthy that the exchange rates of the US dollar in exchange offices and local markets in the capital, Baghdad, reach 1435 dinars for purchase, and 1445 dinars for sale.

It is noteworthy that the Central Bank of Iraq decided on 19 December to amend the exchange rate of the dollar as follows: 
1450 dinars per dollar is the purchase price of foreign currency from the Ministry of Finance.
1460 dinars per dollar the selling price of foreign currency to banks.
1470 dinars per dollar is the selling price of foreign currency to the public.
It is noteworthy that Prime Minister Mustafa Al-Kazemi said during the cabinet session held today, Tuesday, "We hope to stay away from auctions in the issue of the dollar exchange rate, as the decision was taken by the Central Bank according to a targeted vision and strategy, and we began to see the results on the growth of the monetary reserve, and on the classification of Iraq." Credit internationally. "
He added, "We look forward to speeding up the passage of the federal budget law, and the paragraphs it contains that address the needs of the poorest classes, and support service projects that affect the lives of citizens


After passing the budget .. Economist: The exchange rate of the dollar will stabilize at this number

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The economic expert, Saleh Al-Hamashi, said, Thursday (April 1, 2021), that the exchange rate of the dollar will be fixed in the Iraqi market, at 1470 or 1480 dinars within less than a month.

 

It is noteworthy that the House of Representatives voted, yesterday, Wednesday (March 31, 2021),  on the budget law, which included in one of its paragraphs that the exchange rate of one dollar be 1450 dinars.

 

Al-Hamashi stated to  IQNEWS , that "the price of the Iraqi dinar is 1450 dinars to one dollar as the price of the Ministry of Finance, while the price of the Central Bank is 1460 dinars, meaning that there is a (difference) of 10 points between the central bank and the Ministry of Finance."

 

He added that "the price of the dollar will not rise to 1500 dinars, and will stabilize in less than a month at 1470 or 1480 dinars," considering that "the MPs’ statements regarding the exchange rate have confused the currency in Iraq. "

It is noteworthy that the selling price of the dollar in the Iraqi market was recorded today morning, 

Thursday, 146,400 dinars per 100 dollars, while the purchase price was 146,300 dinars


Below is the regular "WOTS report for the day


The exchange rates of the dollar rose on the main stock exchange in Baghdad today, Thursday.

The central Al-Kifah and Al-Harithiya Stock Exchanges in Baghdad recorded 146,750 dinars, compared to 100 US dollars.

While the Kifah Stock Exchange recorded 145.750 dinars when it opened on Wednesday morning.

The price increased in the exchange shops in the local markets in Baghdad as well, as the purchase price reached 145,750 dinars per 100 dollars, and the sale was 146,750 dinars.  



The Markets:
The Asian markets closed up NIK up by .72% HSI up by 1.97% SHANG up by .71%
The UK markets are currently trading in the green from .27% to .75% 
Our futures are currently trading in the green  DOW at 32924 up  by .08% SNP at 3980.50 up  by .33% NDX at 13214.75 down  by .95%

Precious Metals:
Gold is green at 1714 Silver is red  at 24.41 Copper is red at 396 Platinum is red at 1186 
Brent 64 WTI  60   Bitcoin: 58,873

Favorite Currencies Forex Quotes

SymbolBidAskHighLowOpenChangeTime
 USD/IQD  1433.8000  1485.0000 1457.5000 1456.8000 1457.5000  0.0000 11:42
 USD/VND  23065.0000  23075.0000 23054.8700 23050.2400 23050.2400  6.3900 00:26
 USD/CNY  6.5735  6.5755 6.5762 6.5509 6.5509  0.0220 04:57
 USD/KWD  0.3018  0.3028 0.3021 0.3020 0.3021  -0.0002 03:55
 GBP/USD  1.3773  1.3775 1.3795 1.3746 1.3780  -0.0008 04:58
 USD/IRR  42000.0000  42210.0000 42097.5000 42097.5000 42097.5000  0.0000 00:00
 USD/IDR  14578.0000  14582.0000 14605.0000 14541.0000 14543.0000  34.0000 04:56



Iraqi Articles:

Oil prices are returning to rise amid expectations of production restrictions

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Crude prices rose on Thursday to compensate for some of the losses in the previous session, amid expectations that the meeting of OPEC and its allies later on Thursday will result in restrictions on production in the face of the outbreak of Corona virus infection in some regions.

Brent crude for June delivery rose 34 cents, or 0.53 percent, to $ 63.07 a barrel by 05:10 GMT, after falling 2.2 percent overnight. The price of US oil rose 38 cents, or 0.63 percent, to $ 59.54 a barrel, after falling 2.3 percent on Wednesday.

Ministers from the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) and allies including Russia and Kazakhstan, a group called OPEC +, will meet later on Thursday to consider options that include extending production and gradually increasing production.

"The most likely outcome ... the meeting is not significant changes in production," the Eurasia Group said in a report on the gathering.

Eurasia said: "The warning displayed in the OPEC + discussions indicates that any decisions on the tapering will likely be postponed to the May meeting," referring to the gradual supply of halting production to the market.

The cut in OPEC + oil demand growth forecast for this year by 300,000 barrels per day also affected prices and increased the likelihood that the meeting would lead to continued restraint.

OPEC + is currently limiting production by just over 7 million barrels per day to support prices and reduce oversupply. Saudi Arabia added to those cuts another million barrels per day.

The cuts came after the novel coronavirus outbreak turned into the largest global health crisis in a century and stripped demand for oil and fuel

Al-Maliki in a voice message: The battle has not ended and we are still in the center of the field against the terrorists of the country

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The leader of the State of Law coalition, Nouri al-Maliki, said that the country's battle has not ended against terrorists who want to sabotage the country and the political process.
He said in an audio message, "We are still at the center of the field in which our forces are roaming, alongside saboteurs who want to sabotage the country and the political process, so there is no room for complacency, retreat and weakness, but we must provoke our principles and feelings in order to confront every force without fear and without fear." .
"We are right on our side, we must be stronger than they are on their falsehood," he added

After passing the budget .. Economist: The exchange rate of the dollar will stabilize at this number

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The economic expert, Saleh Al-Hamashi, said, Thursday (April 1, 2021), that the exchange rate of the dollar will be fixed in the Iraqi market, at 1470 or 1480 dinars within less than a month.

 

It is noteworthy that the House of Representatives voted, yesterday, Wednesday (March 31, 2021),  on the budget law, which included in one of its paragraphs that the exchange rate of one dollar be 1450 dinars.

 

Al-Hamashi stated to  IQNEWS , that "the price of the Iraqi dinar is 1450 dinars to one dollar as the price of the Ministry of Finance, while the price of the Central Bank is 1460 dinars, meaning that there is a (difference) of 10 points between the central bank and the Ministry of Finance."

 

He added that "the price of the dollar will not rise to 1500 dinars, and will stabilize in less than a month at 1470 or 1480 dinars," considering that "the MPs’ statements regarding the exchange rate have confused the currency in Iraq. "

It is noteworthy that the selling price of the dollar in the Iraqi market was recorded today morning, Thursday, 146,400 dinars per 100 dollars, while the purchase price was 146,300 dinars



Learn about the most prominent features in the joint Iraqi-Saudi statement

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The office of Prime Minister Mustafa Al-Kazemi announced, on Thursday, the joint Iraqi-Saudi statement after the latter's visit to Saudi Arabia on Wednesday.
The statement, which was seen by Al-Eqtisad News, said that it is based on the brotherly and historical ties and ties between Iraq and Saudi Arabia and their brotherly peoples, and a desire to develop relations on solid foundations and principles, foremost among which are Arab and Islamic brotherhood, good neighborliness and common interests, and in response to the call of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques. King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, the Iraqi Prime Minister visited the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia on March 31, 2021. "
 
He added, "A session of talks was held between the Iraqi Prime Minister and Prince Muhammad bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defense, which dealt with prospects for bilateral cooperation between the two brotherly countries and ways to enhance them in all fields.

On the level of bilateral relations, the two sides affirmed their keenness to expand bilateral cooperation in various fields and to activate the agreements and memoranda of understanding reached between the two countries, and urged the ministries and relevant authorities in the two countries to make more efforts to ensure the speedy completion and implementation of these agreements.

The two sides agreed on the following:

1- Establishing a joint Iraqi-Saudi fund, the capital of which is estimated at three billion dollars, as a contribution from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in promoting investment in economic fields in the Republic of Iraq, for the benefit of the Saudi and Iraqi economies, with the participation of the private sector on both sides.

2- Cooperation in the fields of energy and renewable energy and activating and accelerating the joint action plan under the umbrella of the Saudi-Iraqi Coordination Council, with the need to continue cooperation and coordination of positions in the petroleum field, within the scope of work of the Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC), and the agreement (OPEC +), with Full commitment to the requirements of the agreement, the compensation mechanism, and all the decisions that have been agreed upon to ensure the stability of the global oil market.

3- Completing the electrical interconnection project due to its importance for the two countries.

4- Enhancing coordination in the field of mutual support and support within the framework of multilateral diplomacy.

5- Enhancing investment opportunities for Saudi companies and inviting them to expand their activities in Iraq and in various fields, and in reconstruction efforts.

The statement pointed out that "the Republic of Iraq appreciated the participation of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in the Kuwait Conference for the Reconstruction of Iraq, which was held during the period 12-14 February 2018, and its pledges and contribution to it. It was agreed to coordinate between the two sides to agree on the means and aspects of the aforementioned support, as well as the initiatives that were appreciated." The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia provided it to the Republic of Iraq in the field of confronting the Corona pandemic (Covid-19).

"Bilateral agreements were signed that included (an agreement to avoid double taxation, an agreement for cooperation in the field of development planning for economic diversification and private sector development, a cooperation agreement between the Saudi Contractors Authority and the Iraqi Contractors Union for the reconstruction of Iraq, and the agreement for financing Saudi exports to Iraq)."

 

CBI Update:  Just  a note:

They have been having auctions and the ISX has been trading regularly; the sites just don't update in time to put the information in this report, unless it is 
here.   

Click on the link above for the latest update.

The CBI for rate is 1460

The currency auction For April 1st , 2021 total sales amount $ . NO UPDATE  

including   $0. CASH 

ISX Update:   

www.isx-iq.net/

Shares Traded: not updated for today
Value Traded: not updated for today 


3-31-2021   Newshound Guru MilitiaMan  Article:  "Zain Cash launches a service to invite friends to register the permanent wallet"  Quote:  "One of its main services is the World Card MasterCard which operates in two currencies, a dinar and a dollar,"  This looks to be more out that supports they are going international. Operating in two currencies is an indicator of just that. Pairing with the dollar is an international action. imo...Get ready, they are getting ready too... imo.

3-31-2021   Intel Guru Footforward  
 ...The rate has to be above $3.50 in my opinion and they won't out it out publicly into a budget unless the RV has actually already happened.  That is not financial or investment advice.  But I've been very consistent on the rate of the dinar for over 4 years now...There must be a really good reason beyond any stubbornness anyone could say I have.

3-31-2021   Intel Guru Bruce   [via WiserNow]    We’re in a very good place I believe...everything is syncing up – S Y N C ING up so that we can all go together as the shot gun start for us...Remember the lawsuit that...second lawsuit that was filed – in the world court and received a decision back on the 19th...of March -  and the decision was - to have tier 4B...they/we the internet group...the decision called for notifications to go out no later than the 31st of March... even though this is going down to the wire... if everything is still on track - we are all good - it’s all good... I think we’re in a really good place right now...hopefully there are no more delays...

3-31-2021   Newshound Guru Pimpy    People keep asking me what my opinion is on the whole dinar thing - will they take 4 years?  No.  I don't think so.  That's just my opinion though.  I think there's plenty of reasons to watch the currency go up in value...Now there is another thing going on all together. I'm trying to get permission to talk about this.  We think we know what the true reason is why it has not changed yet.  We're just trying to get confirmation and permission to talk about it...

3-31-2021   Newshound Guru Brietling  Question: [The issue of the HCL or the Oil and Gas Law...Do you see this issue needing to be resolved before the value of the dinar increases?]   Nope.  They don't need it.  Period end of story.  How does that effect the rate of the dinar one way or the other?...The hydro Carbon law is they're talking about where the money is going that is brought in from selling energy.  Specifically US dollars.  It has nothing to do with the dinar at all.  

3-31-2021   Intel Guru MarkZ   [via PDK]   A quorum was met about an hour and a half ago…they do expect to vote today on the budget. It does appear that it will pass…so all eyes are on Iraq… If we hear good news I will come back... I have heard rumors they may try to do a “blackout” if the vote went well. And then try to release it over the Easter weekend. Similar to what they did in Kuwait. When Kuwait passed it- they blacked it out for 10 days…of course that was before the widespread proliferation of internet, cell phones etc…. I don’t think they will be able to keep this under wraps as long as they did in Kuwait. But I am told they are going to try. We don’t know exactly how it is going to work…all we can do is watch.  I hope we know at least that they have crossed the finish line…would bring peace of mind. Feels like we have been here before but I don’t think we have ever been this close.

3-31-2021   Intel Guru Frank26   Question:  [I understand there is only so much you can share regarding taxes, my question is...]  ...I stop.  I'm not a wealth manager/advisor...but I can tell you this.  B is going to destroy you.  He's already stabbed you in the back by reneging on many things that he's told you.  He said they wouldn't mess with the capital gains.  Look what he's doing.  He's going to do it at the end of the year.  He's going to wait to the last second to show you how he's going to destroy you.  [NOTE:  Consult your tax and financial advisors at the appropriate time for your family's unique circumstances]

3-31-2021   Guest Guru sheila   [IF it was going to happen or it has happened...IT WILL BE INTERNATIONAL NEWS. PERIOD.]  Yes, there is no such thing as an In Country Revalue. When this activates, it's in a flash - FOREX.

3-31-2021   Newshound Guru Pimpy   This whole arena, everything is speculation...Just because I don't always agree with the other youtubers that doesn't mean I'm after them.  I just don't agree.  We won't always agree on stuff.  Some of you guys believe them too too much if you ask me because you guys lose your mind...stay grounded...you should want somebody to tell it to you straight whether it's good or bad.  That's what I would hope...

3-31-2021   Intel Guru MarkZ   We hope the date for exchanging...is April 1st…this is not written in stone. This is the start of much of the world’s fiscal year…Its the start of Iraq’s fiscal year. They are pushing hard to have it done by then.  







Catnip's Corner:
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ARTICLE 1-A (from PM Kadhimi's website; posted only on Arabic side, not on English side)

The joint Iraqi-Saudi statement after the visit of the Prime Minister, Mr. Mustafa Al-Kazemi, to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia 

Based on the fraternal and historical ties and ties between the Republic of Iraq and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and their brotherly peoples, and a desire to develop relations on solid foundations and principles, foremost among which are Arab and Islamic brotherhood, good neighborliness and common interests, and in response to a generous invitation from the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, King of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Mr. Mustafa Al-Kazemi, Prime Minister of Iraq, visited the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia on March 31, 2021.

A session of talks was held between Mr. Mustafa Al-Kazemi, Prime Minister of Iraq, and His Royal Highness Prince Muhammad bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defense, which dealt with prospects for bilateral cooperation between the two brotherly countries and ways to enhance them in all fields.

Views were also exchanged on issues and issues of concern to the two countries, on the regional and international arenas, in a way that contributes to supporting and strengthening security and stability in the region and the world.

The two sides praised the results of the meeting that took place between the Prime Minister of Iraq and the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, via visual communication on March 25, 2021, and the two sides emphasized the importance of what was discussed and an understanding on it during that meeting, especially with regard to strengthening relations between Iraq and the Kingdom, and enhancing the work of The Saudi-Iraqi Coordination Council.

They expressed their satisfaction with the level of cooperation and coordination between the two brotherly countries, stressing their determination to continue and deepen aspects of cooperation and coordination between them in a way that serves common interests in the political, security, military, commercial, investment and tourism fields, and praised the achievements of the Iraqi-Saudi Coordination Council and the agreements and memoranda of understanding that resulted from it and the importance of urging the ministries and relevant authorities From both sides to follow up and activate aspects of cooperation in a way that allows optimal investment for all available capabilities and opportunities to enhance integration between the two countries, solidarity in facing common challenges, and build on the positive results previously achieved in the mutual visits between officials of the two countries during the last period.

On the level of bilateral relations, the two sides affirmed their keenness to expand bilateral cooperation in various fields and to activate the agreements and memoranda of understanding reached between the two countries, and urged the ministries and relevant authorities in the two countries to make more efforts to ensure the speedy completion and implementation of these agreements.

They also emphasized the continuation of joint cooperation and coordination in confronting the threat of extremism and terrorism, as a threat to the countries of the region and the world through the exchange of expertise and experiences between the competent security authorities and centers in the two countries, and agreed to continue to support the efforts of Iraq in cooperation with the International Coalition to confront the remnants of the terrorist organization ISIS. The importance of joint cooperation in securing the safety of the borders between the two countries.

The two sides agreed on the following:

1- Establishing a joint Iraqi-Saudi fund, the capital of which is estimated at three billion dollars, as a contribution from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in promoting investment in economic fields in the Republic of Iraq, for the benefit of the Saudi and Iraqi economies, with the participation of the private sector on both sides.

2- Cooperation in the fields of energy and renewable energy and activating and accelerating the joint action plan under the umbrella of the Saudi-Iraqi Coordination Council, with the need to continue cooperation and coordination of positions in the petroleum field, within the scope of work of the Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC), and the agreement (OPEC +), with Full commitment to the requirements of the agreement, the compensation mechanism, and all the decisions that have been agreed upon to ensure the stability of the global oil market.

3- Completing the electrical interconnection project due to its importance for the two countries.

4- Enhancing coordination in the field of mutual support and support within the framework of multilateral diplomacy.

5- Enhancing investment opportunities for Saudi companies and inviting them to expand their activities in Iraq and in various fields, and in reconstruction efforts.

The Republic of Iraq appreciated the participation of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in the Kuwait Conference for the Reconstruction of Iraq, which was held during the period 12-14 February 2018, and its pledges and contributions to it, and it was agreed to coordinate between the two sides to agree on the means and aspects of the aforementioned support, as well as the initiatives provided by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. For the Republic of Iraq in the field of confronting the Corona pandemic (Covid-19).

The Republic of Iraq commended the announcement by His Royal Highness Prince Muhammad bin Salman Al Saud, Crown Prince, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defense, of the Saudi Green Initiative and the Green Middle East Initiative, which will be launched soon, which expresses the Kingdom and the region's direction to protect the land and nature in order to achieve global goals. With an emphasis on working with the Kingdom for everything that achieves these initiatives and their goals.

Bilateral agreements were signed that included (an agreement to avoid double taxation, an agreement for cooperation in the field of development planning for economic diversification and private sector development, a cooperation agreement between the Saudi Contractors Authority and the Iraqi Contractors Union for the reconstruction of Iraq, and the agreement for financing Saudi exports to Iraq).

Two memoranda of understanding and cooperation were also signed, which included (a memorandum of understanding between the Iraqi Media Network and the Saudi Radio and Television Authority, and a memorandum of cooperation between the King Abdul Aziz House in the Kingdom and the National Library and Archives in the Republic of Iraq).

On the level of regional issues, the two sides agreed to intensify cooperation, coordination and exchange of views on issues and issues of concern to the two countries on the regional and international arenas, in a way that contributes to supporting and strengthening security and stability in the region, and the need to keep them away from tensions and their causes, and the joint endeavor to establish the foundations of security and sustainable stability.

The two sides stressed the security, safety and stability of the region, and urged all neighboring countries to adhere to the principles of good neighborliness, common interests and non-interference in the internal affairs of countries, and in this context, the Prime Minister affirmed his support for the initiative of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to end the Yemen crisis.

The Prime Minister, Mustafa Al-Kazemi, expressed his thanks and appreciation to the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, to His Royal Highness Prince Muhammad bin Salman bin Abdulaziz, Crown Prince, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defense, and to the Kingdom's government for the good he and the accompanying delegation received Reception and hospitality.

Media Office of the Prime Minister
March 31, 2021

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ARTICLE 1-B (from PM Kadhimi's website; posted only on Arabic side, not on English side)

Prime Minister Mustafa Al-Kazemi meets in the capital, Riyadh, with a number of Saudi businessmen 

Prime Minister Mustafa Al-Kazemi met, on Wednesday evening, as part of his official visit to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, with a number of Saudi businessmen and company heads.

During his meeting with Saudi businessmen, Mr. Al-Kazemi stressed that the opportunity is ripe today to improve economic and trade relations between the two countries, and the need to invest this opportunity, indicating that there is a political will to support this in Iraq and Saudi Arabia.

His Excellency stated that good strides have been made towards laying the right basis for economic and trade relations between the two countries, citing the opening of the Arar border crossing nearly 30 years after its closure, activating the coordination council between the two parties, working on electrical interconnection, and expanding Saudi investments in Iraq in the fields of energy and agriculture.

The Prime Minister said that the Iraqi government attaches today great importance to developing and revitalizing the private sector, and that the recent financial crisis revealed the size of the great imbalance that could have been avoided if the state had been able to sponsor, support and develop the business environment in Iraq, and the activity of private sector companies.

His Excellency explained that the great dependence on oil has made us prisoners of the fluctuations of the oil market, facing a serious crisis, one of the causes of which is the excessive inflation of the public sector and the weakness of the private sector. This was embodied in the white paper prepared by the Iraqi government as a clear road map in this direction.

Mr. Al-Kazemi explained the importance of benefiting from the Saudi experience in this regard, and the Kingdom's vision towards the transition to a modern, productive economy in harmony with the technological development in the world.

Mr. Al-Kazemi affirmed the Iraqi government's commitment to developing the Iraqi-Saudi partnership, and its seriousness to work to improve the investment environment in Iraq, and to overcome the difficulties facing the arrival of Saudi companies to Iraq.

He also met with the President of (ACWA Power), the CEO of (Elm), the President of Alkhorayef Group, and the CEO of Salik.

Media Office of the Prime Minister
March 31, 2021

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ARTICLE 1-C (from PM Kadhimi's website; posted only on Arabic side, not on English side)

Signing of five joint agreements and memoranda of understanding between the Iraqi and Saudi sides

The Iraqi delegation headed by the Prime Minister, Mustafa Al-Kazemi, today, Wednesday, during his official visit to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, signed a number of agreements and memoranda of understanding with the Saudi side, whose delegation was headed by the Crown Prince of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Prince Muhammad bin Salman.

Where a ceremony was signed for the signing of an agreement to prevent double taxation between the government of the Republic of Iraq and the government of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. It was signed on the Iraqi side by Minister of Finance Ali Allawi, while it was signed on the Saudi side by the Saudi Minister of Finance.

The Minister of Finance, Mr. Ali Allawi, signed the Saudi Export Financing Agreement, and on the Saudi side, the CEO in charge of the Saudi Fund for Development signed it.

A joint agreement was also signed for cooperation in the field of development planning for economic diversification and private sector development, and it was signed on the Iraqi side by Minister of Planning, Mr. Khaled Battal.

A memorandum for joint cooperation between the National Library and Archives of the Republic of Iraq and the King Abdulaziz House in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia was also signed, signed on the Iraqi side by the Minister of Construction and Housing, Mrs. Nazleen Muhammad Woso, and signed on the Saudi side by the Secretary-General of the King Abdulaziz House.

A memorandum of understanding was also signed between the Iraqi Media Network and the Saudi Radio and Television Corporation, which was signed on the Iraqi side by the Secretary-General of the Council of Ministers, Mr. Hamid Al-Ghazi, while it was signed on the Saudi side by the Saudi Minister of Information / Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Radio and Television Corporation.

Media Office of the Prime Minister
March 31, 2021

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***A joint meeting of the Iraqi and Saudi delegations chaired by the Prime Minister,       Mr. Mustafa Al-Kazemi and the Saudi Crown Prince
***Prime Minister Mustafa Al-Kazemi meets the Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia, Prince Mohammed bin Salman 
***An official reception ceremony for the Prime Minister, Mustafa Al-Kazemi, in the Saudi capital, Riyadh
***Prime Minister Mustafa Al-Kazemi leaves for the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia at the head of a government delegation 

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ARTICLE 2 (from Government of Iraq twitter account)

PM @MAKadhimi, accompanied by a high-level delegation, begins an official visit to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia where he will hold talks on strengthening bilateral relations, economic cooperation, investment and developments in the region.
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ARTICLE 3

The Iraqi parliament during the vote on the budget 
Source: Iraqi News Agency
March 31, 2021

The Iraqi parliament approved, on Wednesday, the draft general budget bill after months of obstruction due to controversial paragraphs that almost led to political conflicts, adding more complexity to the political scene in the country.

Parliament raised the size of the general budget for 2021 before its approval to more than 101 trillion Iraqi dinars, or about $ 69 billion, up from the government's estimate of 96 trillion Iraqi dinars.

Parliament has also raised operational expenditures, proposed by the government, to ninety trillion dinars, making the total deficit after accounting for other expenditures amounting to more than 28 trillion dinars, according to a copy of the draft budget published by the official Iraqi agency.

The government calculated the price of a barrel of oil on the basis of 42 dollars per barrel and an export rate of 3.25 million barrels per day, but Parliament calculated it at a price of up to 45 dollars, using the Iraqi currency in assessing the price of a barrel instead of the dollar, which ended a major political debate about the restoration of government support for the value of the dinar. Iraqi against the dollar.

The devaluation of the Iraqi currency led to an increase in inflation

The Iraqi dinar against the dollar ... a deepening political dispute and talk about "foreign agendas"
Iraqis are impatiently awaiting the approval of their country’s budget for 2020, which ended without any result for three months, due to the politicians ’disagreements over several items.

With regard to the Kurdistan region of Iraq, the budget obligated the region to pay at least 250 thousand barrels per day of oil field production in the Iraqi region to the Iraqi government for export in exchange for paying the salaries of public employees in the region and settling the related dues between the two sides after being audited by the Office of Financial Supervision.

The Iraqi Public News Agency said, "Parliament has deleted Article 20 of the draft budget law, which deducts taxes from the salaries of ministers and parliamentarians and special grades of 40 percent for the heads of the three presidencies, the Judicial Council and their deputies, and 30 percent for ministers and deputies and those of their rank and those who receive salaries equal to their salaries, as well as taxes deducted. From the salaries of employees whose monthly income exceeds one million Iraqi dinars (about $ 700) by ten percent, and "withholding" taxes on end of service and retirement benefits.

Article Twenty large sums are deducted from the salaries of special grades .. A copy of the Iraqi News Agency
Article Twenty large sums are deducted from the salaries of special grades .. A copy of the Iraqi News Agency
Parliament removed the thirty-eighth article of the draft law, which requires ministries and government departments to open the door for investment to the private sector, and to transfer percentages of investment returns to the state treasury.

Article 38 proposed in the draft budget
Article 38 proposed in the draft budget .. Source: Iraqi News Agency
Parliament postponed the vote on an article related to converting agricultural lands into residential land, which includes large areas of agricultural land around cities that have been unofficially converted into housing.

Parliament has removed articles 42 and 43 pertaining to allowing the government to sell residential real estate and launch tourism investments, and Article 47, which provides for the evaluation of the assets of the property of official institutions in preparation for "selling or renting them."

Parliament added new articles to the budget related to granting governors investment powers in their governorates and obligating the government to send the names of "persons assigned to the positions of heads of independent bodies, special ranks, secretaries of ministries and advisors" to the House of Representatives for approval, in what appears to be an attempt to end the system of "appointment by proxy" that allows the appointment of personalities for these positions Without parliament voting on it

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