Iraqi government approves July salary list
The Iraqi Ministry of Finance has approved the July salary list of the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) employees.
The video for this My FX Buddies Blog is below here:
The Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) will send the August salary list to Baghdad on Monday, the PUK media reported.
Yadgar Jabar, the supervisor of biometrics in Sulaimani, said that the list of salaries for July has been approved, whenever Baghdad decides on the funding will be sent.
“There are 1,189 accounting units in the Kurdistan Region, the salaries of all of them have been prepared by the payroll system and sent to the Ministry of Finance,” said Hiwa Effendi, head of the Information Technology Office.
“The salary list has been approved by the Ministry of Finance,” he said.
Kurdistan Region submits August payroll to Baghdad
Kurdish media reported on Monday that a delegation from the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) will submit the August payroll to Baghdad.
According to the Kurdish website "Esta," which Mawazin News monitored, "a delegation from the Kurdistan Regional Government will submit the August payroll to the Iraqi Ministry of Finance today."
The delegation added that "members of the delegation will respond to any comments from the Iraqi Ministry of Finance on the list and then return to the Kurdistan Region."
Expert: The government must hold accountable those responsible for delaying pensioners' salaries, and the lack of liquidity will not affect their disbursement.
During his appearance on the "Free Talk" program on Al Furat TV, Al-Sheikhly said, "The current financial crisis will not affect the disbursement of salaries to employees, retirees, or social welfare beneficiaries, as they are secured until the end of 2026, even if oil prices fall below their current levels."
He explained that "the pension fund previously placed its funds in a non-interest-bearing checking account before deciding to convert them to a savings account to accrue interest and avoid any delays." He added that "the fund has now been abolished and has entered into new frameworks that he believes will be better for retirees than before."
Al-Sheikhly explained that "the budget's priorities are focused on operational aspects," noting "the fragility of dependence on oil and the need to explore other sources of support for the budget."
He also called on the government to "address this issue early and hold accountable anyone proven to have been negligent in delaying salaries."
Regarding the 2025 budget, Al-Sheikhly confirmed that "there are no new appointments in it," noting that "the three-year budget was designed to avoid political bickering; however, the schedules have brought these bickering back to the forefront, something that cannot be repeated in the coming years."
Regarding the US position on TBI Bank, he explained that "the United States will not impose sanctions on it, but will rather identify some of its actions as a result of a misunderstanding in the context of its operations."
Erbil presents a new proposal to Baghdad regarding non-oil revenues.
link
The Kurdistan Region has submitted a new proposal to the federal Ministry of Finance regarding non-oil revenues, expected to reach 100 billion dinars.
Non-oil revenues are one of the main obstacles to an agreement between Erbil and Baghdad on salaries and the budget.
The new proposal calls for the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) to hand over 50% of fees collected by federal institutions and agencies to the federal Ministry of Finance. These fees include fees for passport and national ID directorates, border crossings, and a number of other institutions.
Previously, both sides claimed 100% of the fees collected by these institutions, while the federal Ministry of Finance demanded all fees collected in the Kurdistan Region.
A source familiar with the matter in the Kurdistan Region told Rudaw Media Network, "Under this proposal, it is highly expected that the amount of non-oil revenues that the Kurdistan Region hands over monthly to the federal Ministry of Finance will increase from 60-70 billion dinars to 100 billion."
This comes as the federal Ministry of Finance, based on the 2024 revenue report, projects more than 180 billion dinars in revenue from the Kurdistan Region.
According to two official sources in Erbil and Baghdad, the new Kurdistan Region proposal has been submitted to the legal advisor to the Iraqi Prime Minister and is scheduled to be presented in a report to Mohammed Shia al-Sudani. A decision on the proposal is expected to be issued at the next meeting of the federal Iraqi Council of Ministers.
Parliament: Resumption of Kurdistan oil exports awaits Cabinet decision
Sabah Subhi, a member of the parliamentary Oil and Gas Committee, confirmed that all technical and procedural preparations for the re-export of Kurdistan Region's oil have been completed, and that all that remains is a decision from the federal cabinet to officially begin the process.
Subhi explained in a statement that oil production in the region has recently increased by 50,000 barrels per day, indicating that the export agreement must be tripartite, between the regional government, the federal government, and the foreign investing companies.
He pointed out that the pipeline is now fully ready to resume the export process after a long period of hiatus, stressing that Article Twelve of the budget law clearly stipulates the allocation of $16 per barrel to cover extraction and transportation costs.
It's worth noting that the region's oil exports have faced ongoing complications since the Federal Supreme Court's 2022 ruling that the Kurdistan Region's oil and gas law was illegal, leading to the subsequent suspension of exports via the Turkish port of Ceyhan in March 2023. Since then, Baghdad and Erbil have engaged in repeated negotiations to reach a joint formula that guarantees the resumption of exports and protects the rights of all parties, while the federal budget law stipulates mechanisms for distributing revenues and covering operating costs.
Iraqi Oil: Signing Major Investment Contracts and Expanding Gas Investment
The Ministry of Oil confirmed on Monday that major investment contracts had been signed and gas investments had expanded, as Iraq has become an attractive investment environment for the oil industry. It noted significant progress in the extraction, refining, gas, and distribution sectors .
“Iraq has signed major contracts with international companies such as Chevron and BB to develop fields in Nasiriyah and Kirkuk, in addition to the integrated gas development project in the Artawi field, with a value exceeding $10 billion,” said Undersecretary of the Ministry, Bassem Khadir, in a speech during the opening of the third Iraq International Oil and Gas Exhibition, which was followed by the “ Al-Sa’a ” network.
He added, "The ministry has increased its gas investment percentage from 45% to 70%, with an ambitious plan to close the flared gas file by 2028. Work is also underway on renewable energy projects, most notably a 1,000-megawatt solar power plant ."
He pointed out that "the integrated project in Artawi includes four axes: increasing oil production, exploiting gas from five fields, establishing a solar energy project, and using seawater injection to increase pressure in oil fields ."
Khadir emphasized that "Iraq is working to develop the infrastructure and human resources in the oil sector, while supporting national companies and raising their efficiency to match their partnerships with international companies, thus enhancing development in all governorates and creating ample job opportunities
Talabani: The region is qualified to become an important trading partner for the United States.
Deputy Prime Minister of the Kurdistan Region, Qubad Talabani, affirmed on Sunday that the Kurdistan Region is qualified to become a major trading partner for the United States in the region.
Talabani said in a statement, a copy of which was received by Al-Masry, that he "discussed with Steve Lutes, Vice President of the US Chamber of Commerce, and his accompanying delegation, in the presence of members of the US-Iraq Economic Council, ways to benefit from modern technology and artificial intelligence in the economic development process in Kurdistan, and to develop trade relations between the region and the United States."
He added, "We also discussed our efforts to develop the capabilities of youth in Kurdistan in the fields of technology and entrepreneurship, given that creative youth can play a role in using modern technology and artificial intelligence in the development process in Kurdistan and contribute, through their technological capabilities, to strengthening trade relations between the United States and the region."
Talabani emphasized that "strengthening trade relations between Kurdistan and the United States will contribute to achieving the desired goal of transforming Kurdistan into a major economic and technological center in the region in the future," noting that "Kurdistan offers tremendous opportunities to transform the region into a major trading partner for the United States in the region."
Steve Lutz: The Kurdistan Region has a more favorable environment for investment than Iraq
The Vice President of the US Chamber of Commerce said that the support and assistance of the Prime Minister of the Kurdistan Region, its favorable environment, security and economic opportunities have encouraged US investment companies to invest in the Kurdistan Region; “The Kurdistan Region has a more favorable environment for investment than Iraq
On Monday, September 8, 2025, Steve Lutz, Vice President of the US Chamber of Commerce told Kurdistan24: “We have 30 companies from the United States and we aim to invest in different sectors in the Kurdistan Region and find economic opportunities; Many companies are coming to the Kurdistan Region for the first time in order to get to know the Kurdistan Region better and find new partners.
"We will invest more in the health, tourism and agriculture sectors in the Kurdistan Region because it has a safe, appropriate and secure environment," he said.
The Vice President of the US Chamber of Commerce said that the priority of the US Chamber of Commerce is to invest in the Kurdistan Region, because the Kurdistan Region has a more favorable environment than Iraq, even the US government targets companies to invest in the region.
"This is the US recognition of the Kurdistan Region. Prime Minister Masrour Barzani has previously said that there are unique opportunities in the energy sector in the Kurdistan Region and expressed his readiness to assist US companies to diversify the Kurdistan Region's economy," he said.
US trade delegation visit to Erbil 'monumental': Consul
US Consul General to Erbil Gwendolyn Green said on Monday that the US trade delegation's visit to the Kurdish capital is "monumental" and encouraged more US investment in the Kurdistan Region.
"I want to thank the US Chamber of Commerce for organizing this trade delegation. It is monumental, and it is a real statement about the future of the US and the Kurdistan Region relationship as we move forward," she said during a speech delivered to an investment conference in Erbil, attended by American and Kurdish officials.
She said that "the United States Department of Commerce has recognized this trade delegation, which is really important because it goes to show how much of a commitment that the United States has in building these relationships between here and Washington.”
A delegation of more than 30 United States companies, certified by the US Chamber of Commerce, participated in the investment conference in Erbil on Monday to discuss investment opportunities across a wide range of sectors in the Kurdistan Region.
This is “the largest delegation to date” to have visited the Kurdistan Region and had the endorsement of the US Department of Commerce, Steve Lutes, director of the US Chamber of Commerce’s Middle East Affairs division, told Rudaw.
He hoped they would see “more companies using this as a springboard to come and do business in the Region,” adding the visiting delegation aims to discuss "commercial opportunities and investments.”
The United States currently ranks sixth among countries with the highest number of companies in the Kurdistan Region, according to data Rudaw has obtained from relevant authorities in Erbil.
Washington and Erbil enjoy close ties. The US has been a key supporter of the Kurdistan Region since it gained autonomy in the 1990s, backing the development of the Kurdish Peshmerga, leading the global coalition against ISIS, and supporting ongoing reform efforts. The US is also preparing to open a new consulate general in Erbil, set to be the largest in the world.
The visit of the US business delegation comes five months after the Chamber of Commerce and the Federation of Iraqi Chambers of Commerce signed an agreement in Baghdad to enhance private sector cooperation between their countries, at a critical time when Iraq was seeking to mitigate the impact of Washington’s tariffs increase on a wide range of its goods.
"This dynamic region is hungry for US investment in products. And you all are well placed as a part of this trade mission to make the connections that you need to feed that hunger,” the US consul general noted in her speech. .
Safeen Dizayee, head of the Kurdistan Region's Department of Foreign Relations (DFR), welcomed the delegation in a speech, highlighting historic relations between Kurds and Americans.
He said US investment will not just cover the Kurdistan Region's population but the whole of Iraq.
"Kurdistan, with a population of 6.5 million, may be limited, but there's a greater market. The rest of Iraq, over 40 million. Therefore, Kurdistan can be used as a hub to expand their business in future years. This is something which we've encouraged as a government. We believe the government should stay out of business and leave business to the business leaders," he said.
"Any company who is interested in that area, we will be welcoming them, and we are ready to engage them to explore that field even further," he stated, adding that they are working on a project to form a group of business leaders to visit the US in the coming months.
"We are working on a paper which will be a joint effort. And as we have done so with the French, with the Italians, with the Dutch, with the British," he said.
Want to support My FX Buddies?
.png)
Support My FX Buddies Big or Small I appreciate it all
BuyMeACoffee CashApp:$tishwash
https://paypal.me/tishwash
.jpeg)
Parliament: Resumption of Kurdistan oil exports awaits Cabinet decision
Sabah Subhi, a member of the parliamentary Oil and Gas Committee, confirmed that all technical and procedural preparations for the re-export of Kurdistan Region's oil have been completed, and that all that remains is a decision from the federal cabinet to officially begin the process.
Subhi explained in a statement that oil production in the region has recently increased by 50,000 barrels per day, indicating that the export agreement must be tripartite, between the regional government, the federal government, and the foreign investing companies.
He pointed out that the pipeline is now fully ready to resume the export process after a long period of hiatus, stressing that Article Twelve of the budget law clearly stipulates the allocation of $16 per barrel to cover extraction and transportation costs.
It's worth noting that the region's oil exports have faced ongoing complications since the Federal Supreme Court's 2022 ruling that the Kurdistan Region's oil and gas law was illegal, leading to the subsequent suspension of exports via the Turkish port of Ceyhan in March 2023. Since then, Baghdad and Erbil have engaged in repeated negotiations to reach a joint formula that guarantees the resumption of exports and protects the rights of all parties, while the federal budget law stipulates mechanisms for distributing revenues and covering operating costs.
Iraqi Oil: Signing Major Investment Contracts and Expanding Gas Investment
The Ministry of Oil confirmed on Monday that major investment contracts had been signed and gas investments had expanded, as Iraq has become an attractive investment environment for the oil industry. It noted significant progress in the extraction, refining, gas, and distribution sectors .
“Iraq has signed major contracts with international companies such as Chevron and BB to develop fields in Nasiriyah and Kirkuk, in addition to the integrated gas development project in the Artawi field, with a value exceeding $10 billion,” said Undersecretary of the Ministry, Bassem Khadir, in a speech during the opening of the third Iraq International Oil and Gas Exhibition, which was followed by the “ Al-Sa’a ” network.
He added, "The ministry has increased its gas investment percentage from 45% to 70%, with an ambitious plan to close the flared gas file by 2028. Work is also underway on renewable energy projects, most notably a 1,000-megawatt solar power plant ."
He pointed out that "the integrated project in Artawi includes four axes: increasing oil production, exploiting gas from five fields, establishing a solar energy project, and using seawater injection to increase pressure in oil fields ."
Khadir emphasized that "Iraq is working to develop the infrastructure and human resources in the oil sector, while supporting national companies and raising their efficiency to match their partnerships with international companies, thus enhancing development in all governorates and creating ample job opportunities
Al-Sudani heads to Brussels: Is he sending secret political signals to NATO?
Al-Mustaqilla/- Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani headed to the Belgian capital, Brussels, today, Monday (September 8, 2025), to deliver a speech before the North Atlantic Council (NATO), at the official invitation of NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte.
Strengthening security relations
This visit carries significant political and security implications, coming at a time when Iraq is continuing its efforts to strengthen military cooperation with international coalitions to confront security and terrorist challenges in the region. Al-Sudani is expected to focus on Iraq's role as a strategic partner in promoting regional stability, in addition to discussing NATO's programs to train Iraqi forces and share intelligence information.
Political and regional messages
Al-Sudani's visit sends signals to both Iraq and abroad about the government's openness to international allies and its commitment to playing an active role in regional security issues. It may also aim to allay international concerns about internal alliances and the balance of power among regional powers, especially in light of the tensions surrounding the region.
Regional context
The visit comes at a sensitive time, as Iraq faces political and geopolitical challenges, including continued security threats along its borders and diplomatic issues related to its relations with neighbors and major powers. The Prime Minister's presence before the NATO Council is seen as an opportunity to affirm Iraq's ability to play a pivotal role in regional stability and review national strategies to confront common threats.
Conclusion
Al-Sudani's visit to Brussels is not merely a protocol event. It represents a political and strategic message about Iraq's drive to strengthen its relations with international allies and consolidate its role as a reliable partner in regional and international security.
Al-Sudani: Iraq has overcome all challenges and today represents a fundamental pillar of security and stability in the region.
Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani affirmed on Monday that Iraq has overcome all challenges and is today a fundamental pillar of security and stability in the region .
His office stated in a statement received by the Mail that "Al-Sudani met, in the Belgian capital, Brussels, with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, during which bilateral relations between Iraq and the NATO mission in Iraq were discussed ."
Al-Sudani expressed his "appreciation for Rutte's invitation to participate in the North Atlantic Council meetings," noting that "Iraq has overcome all challenges and today represents a fundamental pillar of security and stability in the region ."
He stressed that "social cohesion in Iraq is its strength," emphasizing "the need for the international community to play its role in stopping the war in the region and the grave violations being committed in Gaza ."
For his part, Rutte expressed his "appreciation for Iraq's role in stabilizing security in the region," praising the "significant shift in the management of all issues during the current government's tenure ."
He praised the "great support that NATO's mission in Iraq receives ."
Al-Sudani to NATO countries: Iraq is a strategic partner, and regional stability is a shared responsibility.
Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani called on NATO countries to enhance cooperation and joint action to achieve regional stability. In his address to NATO leaders in Brussels, he emphasized that Iraq has become a reliable strategic partner, and that it is continuing to consolidate democracy, build balanced relations, and develop its defense capabilities to ensure its sovereignty and contribute to regional and global security.
Al-Sudani's office said in a statement"
Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani calls on the North Atlantic Council countries to cooperate and work for regional stability.
Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani delivered a speech on Monday before leaders and representatives of the North Atlantic Council countries at NATO headquarters in Brussels, Belgium, at the invitation of NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte.
In his remarks, Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani noted that this meeting is being held amidst the turmoil and fundamental transformations taking place in the Middle East, amid violations of international law, the perpetration of crimes against humanity, and threats to regional security. He emphasized the establishment of a constructive partnership with NATO based on a sovereign decision aimed at building long-term, comprehensive relations across various fields.
His Excellency explained that Iraq is no longer a security concern, but rather a reliable strategic partner. The relationship with the alliance has demonstrated this type of partnership. He also emphasized that assessing the role of the NATO mission in Iraq is important and essential. He also emphasized that bilateral cooperation is a model to be emulated in the region, as is the effort to make Iraq a regional partner of NATO, within arrangements that benefit both parties.
The following are the highlights of the Prime Minister’s speech:
🔷 Iraq today represents a prominent model in the Middle East, within its federal, pluralistic, democratic system.
🔷 Our people's transition to democracy has been strong and resilient, despite the challenges and crises facing our region.
🔷 Our government is continuing to build strong, sustainable relations with countries and international institutions that align with our political values of pluralism and freedom.
🔷 We adopt the principle of balance in our foreign policies, avoiding bias and axes, guided by the supreme interest of Iraq and its people.
🔷 We seek to strengthen relations with NATO countries, participate in planning and implementing regional security initiatives, and develop our capabilities in the field of air defense and deterrence, in a manner that guarantees Iraq's sovereignty and supports stability in the region.
🔷 We affirm our cooperation with NATO in confronting the challenges of terrorism, border security, combating organized crime, cyber threats, and threats to regional stability.
🔷 We look forward to NATO's support in building deterrence capabilities against threats, and supporting the government's efforts to distance Iraq from regional conflicts.
🔷 Conflicts must be resolved through diplomacy and international law. Regional instability is a danger whose consequences, including terrorism, displacement, and humanitarian crises, will extend to Europe and the world.
🔷 Our government's priority is to rebuild Iraq and enable our country to fulfill its role and cultural and developmental position in the region and the world.
🔷 We are about to hold legislative elections, and the government is committed to supporting this entitlement and conducting it in a fair and transparent manner.
🔷 Our pluralistic system allows everyone to compete freely in elections, and the government will be formed based on the results and through a peaceful transfer of power.
🔷 We are able to overcome economic and environmental challenges, especially the challenge of securing water resources and maximizing the non-oil economy.
🔷 We are committed to the decision to restrict the possession of weapons to the state and to reform the security services, to protect all citizens and maintain order.
🔷 Our government has focused on diversifying the economy, encouraging entrepreneurship and foreign investment, and protecting local industries.
🔷 Our work priorities include strengthening national unity, empowering youth, women, and marginalized groups, and supporting education and healthcare to ensure equality and comprehensive progress.
🔷Aggression and the unlawful use of force pose dangers that extend beyond the Middle East, and the international community must act responsibly to provide protection.
🔷Iraq seeks to resolve the Iranian nuclear issue peacefully and within the framework of international law, Security Council resolutions, and the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons.
🔷 Iraq affirms its support for Syria's stability and ensuring that inclusiveness and pluralism are the foundation of its future.
🔷 Violations in the occupied Palestinian territories contravene UN Security Council resolutions and must be ended, along with the genocide in Gaza.
🔷 Iraq seeks to establish a regional system based on interdependence, containing conflicts through peaceful means, and cooperating to confront common challenges.
🔷 Our vision is based on partnerships that integrate economic, political, security, and coordination dimensions to support stability and collective development.
🔷 Our relationship with NATO represents a model to be emulated, ensuring that Iraq remains a source of stability in the region and a contributor to international peace and security.
Al-Sudani from Brussels: Iraq is a pillar of stability in the region.
Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani met with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte in Brussels on Monday to discuss bilateral relations and the role of the NATO mission in Iraq. During the meeting, al-Sudani stressed that Iraq has overcome security and political challenges and has become a pillar of regional stability. He called on the international community to shoulder its responsibilities in stopping the war and violations in Gaza. The NATO Secretary General praised Iraq's pivotal role and its government's efforts in strengthening security and managing internal and external issues.
Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani met today, Monday, in the Belgian capital, Brussels, with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, during which they discussed bilateral relations between Iraq and the NATO mission in Iraq.
His Excellency expressed his appreciation for Mr. Rutte's invitation to participate in the North Atlantic Council meetings, noting that Iraq has overcome all challenges and today represents a fundamental pillar of security and stability in the region.
The Prime Minister affirmed that social cohesion in Iraq is its strength, emphasizing the need for the international community to play its role in halting the war in the region and the grave violations being committed in Gaza.
For his part, Mr. Rutte expressed his appreciation for Iraq's role in stabilizing security in the region, commending the significant shift in the management of all issues under the current government. He also commended the significant support the NATO mission in Iraq receives.
President Barzani: ISIS will re-emerge if US forces and the international coalition withdraw from Iraq.
President Masoud Barzani expressed "great concern" that mismanagement could lead to a war between Kurds and Arabs in Syria. While expressing his fear, he emphasized that every effort would be made to avoid such a situation, emphasizing that problems must be resolved without considering war, as it is not a solution.
In an interview with the "Face to Face" program, broadcast on France 24 on Monday, he said: "The new authority in Syria must take into account the country's diverse components, as well as the strengths of each component."
President Barzani affirmed his support for the peace process in Türkiye, noting that this time the approach to peace is different from previous ones, at the level of the government, parliament, and Turkish public opinion.
He noted that the events of 2012 would be repeated if US forces and the international coalition withdrew from Iraq and ISIS would re-emerge.
Regarding relations between Erbil and Baghdad, President Barzani said: "There are some difficulties, but there is a genuine intention to resolve them." He explained that the constitution exists and is "a roadmap for us and for Baghdad. We are not asking for more than what is in the constitution, but we will not accept any violation of the constitution."
President Barzani pointed out that there is a problem in Baghdad, which is the problem of recognizing the federal system.
Below is the full text of the interview:
Mr. Barzani, I want to start with the situation in Syria, where since the beginning of the new government we have witnessed a lot of violence against some minorities such as the Alawites, the Druze, and also the Kurds. In March, an agreement was signed between the Kurdish-born head of the Syrian Democratic Forces, Mazloum Abdi, and Ahmed al-Sharaa, the interim president, to integrate Kurdish military and civilian institutions into the local government. Later, we saw that the agreement did not enter into force. Do you fear acts of violence or even a civil war in Syria?
President Barzani : Without a doubt, changing the Syrian regime is the solution to the set of Syrian problems. We have mobilized our forces to ensure Kurdish unity and choose the path of peace. We have also supported the Syrian Kurds. I met with Mazloum Abdi and also supported the agreement signed between Ahmed al-Sharaa and Mazloum Abdi. However, recently there has been concern about escalation and collapse, but we are certain that we must not lose the path of peace. My greatest concern is that there will be mismanagement that could lead to a war between the Kurds and the Arabs. This is my greatest fear, but we will make every effort to avoid that. Problems must be resolved without thinking about war, because war is not a solution. In my opinion, the new authority must take into consideration the components of the country, in addition to the characteristics of each component.
Mr. President, you have spoken about your fear of foreign interference. Let us be clear: Turkey is militarily threatening the Syrian Democratic Forces and asserting that this group does not want an agreement. We have also heard accusations that they are being controlled by Israel. You have a good relationship with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and you asked him not to interfere in Syria. Do you think he will comply?
President Barzani : Of course, we communicate with Turkey on a regular basis, and with President Erdogan personally. The Turks also support the idea of a peaceful solution, just as they supported the March agreement, just as we did. But there were many difficulties, and it was not easy.
But do you oppose a Turkish military intervention in Syria against these groups?
President Barzani: I don't believe these groups are working against Turkish interests. Rather, Turkish officials have expressed their desire to resolve these issues, clarify the fate of the Kurds, and reject any unjust escalation.
On the subject of Türkiye, there is an important development, which is the decision of the Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK) to lay down its weapons. In your opinion, is this a historic change that will affect your region, given that this surrender was necessary, and is it actually happening?
President Barzani : First, I want to say that we support the peace process in Turkey with all our strength. This time, the approach to peace is different from previous ones, at the level of the governor, parliament, and Turkish public opinion, as they all support the process, and this is a major change.
As for the Kurds and the PKK, they support the peace process, and this is what we hope for. Before the process began, Abdullah Ocalan sent a delegation to meet with me, and we expressed our support for this peace process. We did everything we were asked to do, and we will continue to do so. We hope that this process will lead to real change for the entire region.
Abdullah Ocalan is imprisoned and has invited you to visit him. Is this true? Do you intend to visit him? Do you think it would be a good idea to release him in the name of the peace process?
President Barzani : I hope to meet him, but outside prison.
Did you ask President Erdogan to release him?
President Barzani: I haven't met him recently, but I think this is the outcome of the peace process, and I also hope he will be released.
Returning to the situation in Iraq, US forces will withdraw from Iraq by the end of this year, 2025, and from the Kurdistan Region by the end of next year, 2026. Do you fear this will create a vacuum and a recurrence of the ISIS situation during the previous US withdrawal? Do you fear this, or do you see the circumstances as completely different this time?
President Barzani : There is no doubt that when US forces and the international coalition withdraw, the same scenario of the events of 2012 will be repeated and ISIS will re-emerge.
So, have you asked the Trump administration not to withdraw troops by the end of next year, and do you hope your demands will be heard?
President Barzani : I don't think there will be a complete withdrawal because we have always told them that our country needs American forces and the international coalition because the threat of ISIS still exists. We said that and informed them of it, and this is our policy.
Drone strikes occurred in your region, specifically in July. A prominent member of your party, Hoshyar Zebari, accuses the local government in Baghdad of knowing who is behind these attacks but refusing to announce it publicly. Do you agree with these accusations? And who do you think is responsible for the attacks?
President Barzani : A joint investigation committee was formed between Erbil and Baghdad and was able to reach conclusions to determine who was behind the drone attacks on the region and where they were launched. These findings were scheduled to be published. I do not want to announce them before they are published.
We've also heard some officials in the independent government accuse the Popular Mobilization Forces, often linked to Iran, of being responsible for the attacks. This has been publicly announced. Is this your opinion as well? We know that these forces have intervened in your region in the past. Are they responsible?
President Barzani : This is certainly well known, but we are not accusing all Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF) organizations, but rather a few specific groups. Again, I do not want to reveal these details, as the rest is clear.
The relationship between Baghdad and Erbil has been difficult. For years, there has been a dispute, and in May, the local government suspended financial transfers, including the payment of salaries to government employees. It appears that some kind of agreement has been reached, including regarding the oil that could be re-exported. Is there a real agreement? Are there still pressures? Has trust been fundamentally lost between Erbil and Baghdad?
President Barzani : Unfortunately, there are some difficulties, but there is a genuine intention to resolve them, and we will be able to do so. The constitution exists, and it is a roadmap for us and for Baghdad. We are not asking for more than what is in the constitution, but we will not accept any violation of the constitution either. What we want is the implementation of the constitution.
There is also the problem of recognizing the federal system. This problem exists today in Baghdad, the problem of recognizing federalism.
Parliamentary elections were also held in the region last October, but since then, parliament has not met, nor has a new government been formed, and there is a kind of paralysis. Does this worry you?
President Barzani: This is true and unfortunate. We are not happy with the situation. We hope that in September and in the coming days, Parliament will meet to form a new government.
No doubt IS group 'will rise again' if US forces withdraw from Iraq, Barzani says
Again, Maliki speaks of moves to "overthrow" the political process.
: The leader of the State of Law Coalition has returned once again.Nouri al-Maliki, on Monday, to hint at the existence of "moves to overthrow the political process" inIraq...as part of a series of ongoing statements that continue to raise ambiguity and questions about the truth of these movements.
He added, "Do not pay attention to the bats of darkness who talk and move to overthrow the political process," noting that "we must move forward with our political process, our constitution, our public and our people to sustain that process."
He stressed that "we will not allow the return of dictatorship, racism, sectarianism, mass graves and absurd wars," noting that "our goal is to makeIraq"Strong, solid, and solid, unaffected by any crises."
These statements come within the context of Maliki's repeated statements about fears of "overthrowing the electoral process, postponing the elections, and ending the political process in Iraq," without clear indications of how these results might be achieved.
Deploying ships and mobilizing troops... Fears of war between Venezuela and the US
Tensions are escalating between Venezuela and the United States, threatening to spark a war between the two countries. This is particularly true with the US deploying warships to Venezuela's coast, and the South American country deploying troops in return.
In this regard, Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro confirmed the mobilization of 25,000 armed forces personnel to the border areas with Colombia and along the country's maritime coast, marking a new escalation of the crisis with the United States, which has deployed warships near Venezuelan territorial waters.
"I have ordered the deployment of 25,000 men and women from our glorious Bolivarian National Armed Forces," Maduro said in a message posted on social media, confirming statements made by his Defense Minister Vladimir Padrino Lopez.
He pointed to reinforcements in the "bilateral peace zone" (the border with Colombia) and on the Caribbean coast, where the country's largest oil refineries are located, as well as on the east coast, particularly in the Amacor Delta, which borders Guyana.
"The main objective of this mobilization is to defend national sovereignty and the country's security and to fight for peace," Maduro added.
For his part, US President Donald Trump threatened to shoot down Venezuelan aircraft that he considered a threat to the US Navy's deployment in the region, which the White House officially described as a counter-drug operation.
Sources within the Trump administration indicated that they are not ruling out launching attacks on Venezuelan territory against facilities believed to be affiliated with drug cartels.
Last week, US Navy forces attacked a drug-laden boat sailing from Venezuela to the United States, killing 11 "narco-terrorists," as Trump described them.
The Venezuelan armed forces comprise approximately 123,000 troops, along with 220,000 militia members, most of whom have already been called up and are expected to be mobilized in the coming days, according to Maduro.
Venezuelan Defense Minister Padrino Lopez announced yesterday, Sunday, an increased mobilization to deploy 25,000 troops.
Strengthening digital infrastructure
Electronic signatures are a cornerstone of banks' digital transformation, providing a reliable technical and legal basis for electronic transactions. This aligns with Iraq's efforts to improve its digital infrastructure, as stated by the Minister of Communications.
Relying on electronic signatures will reduce the need for paper documents, lowering operational costs associated with printing, storage, and transportation. It will also speed up transaction procedures such as opening accounts and issuing loans, reducing waiting times from days to minutes in some cases. Furthermore, it uses advanced encryption technologies, reducing the chances of forgery and fraud. This enhances customer confidence in digital banking services, a vital step in an environment marked by increasing cyber risks.
Having an internationally recognized electronic signature means that Iraqi banking documents and transactions will be accepted internationally, opening doors for cooperation with international banks and making Iraq more attractive to foreign investment.
Digital signatures are the fuel for accelerating digital banks (or digital branches of traditional banks), enabling the provision of complete services online without the need for a physical presence, such as opening accounts completely remotely, signing contracts and agreements securely, and completing lending and financing transactions seamlessly.
With a solid legal and technical foundation, banks can develop and offer innovative financial services such as mobile banking with a more secure experience, crowdfunding platforms that require authenticated signatures on agreements, and Wealth-Tech (digital wealth management) services that rely on secure electronic contracts.
Electronic signatures eliminate geographical barriers, allowing banks to reach customers in remote areas or those who prefer a fully digital banking experience. This aligns with the digital transformation vision that aims to include all citizens.
Despite the significant advantages, the success of e-signatures in the Iraqi banking sector faces some challenges, most notably digital infrastructure. Gaps in internet coverage and reliability remain in some areas of Iraq, potentially limiting the effectiveness of e-signatures. Culture and trust are also key here, and both customers and employees need to be educated about the importance and security of e-signatures. Intensive training programs are also needed, as is cybersecurity. With increased reliance on digitization, banks increasingly need to invest heavily in advanced cybersecurity systems to protect customer data and transactions from attacks.
The launch of e-signatures in Iraq is a step in the right direction and could be a powerful catalyst for the banking sector. To realize the full benefits, collaboration between the public and private sectors is essential: Banks should work closely with the Ministry of Communications and regulatory authorities to ensure that e-signature systems comply with international standards, invest in infrastructure and security, and adopt technologies such as cloud computing and blockchain to enhance security and efficiency.
I see the imperative of organizing comprehensive awareness campaigns to educate customers on the benefits and use of electronic signatures to build trust and drive adoption. I also believe it is imperative to conduct ongoing training for staff to develop the skills of bank employees to navigate new technologies and manage digital platforms efficiently.
In short, this decision is not just a technical addition, but a strategic shift that lays the foundation for the Iraqi banking sector to compete regionally and globally, and to enter the era of digital banking with confidence and security.
Economic pressures challenge Sudani’s path to second term as Iraq’s PM
BAGHDAD
Supporters of Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shiaa Sudani fear that the country’s fragile financial situation could undermine the positive record he has built ahead of November’s parliamentary elections, potentially threatening his bid for a second term in office. Concerns over a looming fiscal crisis are believed to have prompted Baghdad to seek an increase in its oil export quota within OPEC.
Both domestic and international observers acknowledge that Sudani has achieved a measure of success during his current term, which is nearing its end. Under his leadership, Iraq has restarted development projects largely stalled under previous governments, delivering some infrastructure and service initiatives already in use while launching others. He has also attracted foreign partners to invest in the country, including Turkey in a key development corridor linking southern Iraq to the Turkish border, alongside American and British firms targeting the Iraqi oil sector.
Sudani’s government has contributed to stabilising security and social indicators have improved. Yet these gains have come with increased public expenditure, surpassing Iraq’s financial capacity. The country remains heavily reliant on oil revenues, which, according to some analysts, can at times be entirely consumed by the state’s wage bill.
The financial strain has entered the political arena, with some of Sudani’s rivals arguing that if he wins a second term, he may be forced to review wages and cut social benefits to offset the fiscal pressures inherited from his current administration, contrasting with the expansionary spending of his first term.
Observers warn of real economic and fiscal risks, which could escalate into a severe crisis if oil prices fall. Iraqi politician Hussein Maliki described the budget deficit as “record-breaking,” cautioning it could threaten the government’s ability to pay salaries and pensions. He estimated the shortfall at roughly $75 billion, criticising the adoption of a three-year budget amid volatile oil prices.
Maliki added that the government had failed to submit annual budget tables, affecting ministry operations and delaying salary payments, forcing the state toward borrowing and potentially worsening the deficit. He also noted chronic liquidity shortages that could imperil wages in the coming months.
Economists frequently warn that Iraq’s near-total dependence on oil revenues for salaries undermines economic development and the provision of basic services, leaving the country highly vulnerable to social unrest if oil markets experience price shocks.
In such circumstances, the government would have limited options beyond boosting public revenues through tax enforcement or adjusting the salary system, measures difficult to implement in a socially-tense environment. With time short ahead of pivotal elections, increasing oil revenues remains the quickest and most effective solution, pending the implementation of broader, long-term income diversification strategies.
Against this backdrop, Sudani requested that fellow OPEC and OPEC+ members review Iraq’s crude oil export quota. The request is notable, as it runs counter to prior pressure on Iraq to reduce output to offset increases elsewhere. Iraq is OPEC’s second-largest producer after Saudi Arabia, with current production capacity near five million barrels per day, although actual output remains lower.
In April, Iraq proposed further production cuts to compensate for over-quota outputs. According to the ministry of oil, average Iraqi oil exports reached 3.38 million barrels per day in August. SOMO, Iraq’s state marketing company, expects September exports to average between 3.4 and 3.45 million barrels per day, including Kurdish region flows.
The request for a higher quota carries risks, potentially sparking disputes within OPEC. Meeting Iraq’s demand could generate output surpluses, depress global crude prices and trigger financial and socio-political repercussions Baghdad is neither seeking nor able to absorb.
Here's the link to the Coincentral.com article
Link to Bloomberg US begins publishing economic data on public blockchain
No comments:
Post a Comment