What comes after purchasing power and fairness in building the economy? – Iyad Al-Anaz
The economy is a cornerstone of the modern civil state and a key driver in achieving the principles of sustainable community development and maintaining a balance between economic growth and the effective management of natural resources to ensure their sustainability for future generations.
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Among the most important principles of a national economy are enhancing purchasing power, improving living standards, achieving social justice, and distributing wealth equitably among all members of society, regardless of their diversity or geographical location, thus fostering positive growth, progress, and prosperity. A
scientifically and administratively sound economy creates numerous opportunities for productive work, utilizes human resources, supports youth-led scientific innovation, and strengthens the social and economic stability of the people. It also empowers community solidarity initiatives to play their positive role in promoting human cohesion and mutual support, assisting needy and vulnerable families, and reducing economic and social disparities by providing equal and fair opportunities for all members of society. Furthermore, it ensures a clear and equitable distribution of resources and services, thereby addressing unemployment and increasing per capita income, which is the foundation for the advancement of the production process at an accelerating pace.
The economy is taking important paths to increase the state's financial returns and not relying on a single source of production and export. Here I refer to setting the state's financial budget criteria based on oil production as a single economic approach, rather than enhancing the skills to search for other sources by supporting economic development with key factors in the agricultural and industrial sectors, building strategic projects, supporting investments in all sectors and government institutions, and giving great importance to developing life in all its economic, social and cultural aspects. The effectiveness of exports remains of paramount importance in increasing the state's financial revenues through financing sustainable community development, operating production plants and factories and supporting the private sector.
Economic development derives its importance from the factors involved in sustaining it through increasing national income within the state’s economic system and adopting successful methods and approaches to address unemployment and poverty phenomena by adopting sound foundations and successful initiatives to increase services provided to citizens and diversify job opportunities through a broad economic process and long periods of time capable of organizing economic projects and developing productive work skills among young people in order to achieve the goals of economic community development.
Economic forces, political tools, and social orientations take the economy as an important tool in strengthening the social structure of peoples and determining their future paths by drawing up the tools of their needs in aspects of progress and prosperity through many development programs, realistic ideas, research centers, and economic tools with a national approach that contributes to strengthening the spirit of giving and creativity among the sons of the nation and helps to support the mature youth thought that possesses the tools of change and reform towards building a cohesive society with a spirit of national belonging and continuous giving, reaching stages of advancement and elevation on the ladder of economic production and supply. The economy is the important tool that protects the independence of the country and contributes to strengthening its political decision, supporting social constants, and instilling a spirit of perseverance among the people to give broad horizons that enhance the bonds of cohesion and harmony in society.
Proper preparation for the use of means of production, support for the national economy, and containment of youth competencies are key factors that contribute to intellectual and urban development, solid construction, and establish the foundations of community work to protect the links of the pillars of the economic system that determine the paths and prospects of the future for future generations. It provides ample space for the establishment of production units of factories and plants and establishes an industrial and commercial renaissance that helps to support and reinforce orientations based on respect for the choices of the people and their national will, achieving their goals, and preserving the independence of their homeland, far from all the procedures, means, and plans that international and regional interests seek to use to dominate the destinies of free peoples, exploit their wealth, and control their future.
Legislative elections are a political guarantee for economic growth and stability.
Dr. Haitham Hamid Mutlaq Al-Mansour
Legislative elections in Iraq are a pivotal part of the political process, as they are the legal and legitimate link that ensures the peaceful transfer and transformation of power and works to achieve the necessary prerequisites and basic requirements for the process of building the state in all its parts and the proper growth of society.
The impact of elections on the economy is tangible, but indirect, by conferring legitimacy on the government resulting from elections with strong public approval and legislative parliamentary consensus, from which it derives the necessary legitimacy to make crucial reform decisions, such as reducing subsidies, restructuring the public sector, stimulating the private sector, reducing rent-seeking, and expanding sources of income or GDP.
However, weak voter turnout in elections undermines this legitimacy and reflects a loss of confidence in ruling parties and elites. Framing political conflict rather than resolving it often leads elections to redistribute power among political elites (a recalibration of power) instead of bringing about change or improvement in the landscape of achievement. This is compounded by the stagnation of the existing political system, which creates fragile alliances that hinder the formation of governments incapable of implementing a long-term strategic vision for economic reform.
The electoral programs presented by political parties and blocs largely lack clear funding frameworks and specific implementation mechanisms. Furthermore, promises to create jobs and combat corruption are likely to remain mere slogans in the absence of realistic financial plans and measurable performance indicators.
However, with the growing political activism, the continued practice of political experimentation, and the clear improvement in the government's performance in providing essential services and completing a significant portion of important projects—despite numerous shortcomings—optimism prevails that the electoral competition between political parties and blocs of all stripes and orientations could produce a bloc capable of reforming the government. This bloc would undertake the task of advancing the country and building upon past achievements by embracing the requirements of the transition towards development and investment. This would transform elections from mere political representation into a genuine catalyst for stability and economic growth, through a commitment to implementing several key elements of the state's policy and government program.
1. Political Will to Combat Corruption: The incoming government must possess the political will to confront the entrenched corruption networks within state institutions. This requires strengthening oversight bodies such as the Integrity Commission and the Financial Control Bureau, granting them greater executive powers. It also necessitates working towards the success of systems like the Integrated Financial Management Information System (IFMIS), which ensures transparent and auditable financial operations.
2. Structural reform of the economy: There must be a serious shift from a rentier, oil-dependent economy to a diversified one. This requires redirecting public spending from current consumption to investment in infrastructure projects that stimulate the private sector.
3. Active community participation and oversight: Sustained pressure from citizens, independent media, and civil society organizations can play a pivotal role in holding the government accountable and demanding transparency. Demanding the publication of contracts and monitoring project budgets can prevent the waste of public funds.
To ensure that the elections produce a government capable of leading economic development, its policies must focus on building strong and stable institutions by concentrating on the following steps:
1. Reforming the legislative framework: Iraq needs to adopt a "sound legislation" approach to ensure that laws are coherent, enforceable, and meet the real economic needs of society. Laws should focus on promoting transparency, combating corruption, and protecting property rights.
2. Structural reform of the economy: The primary objective is to transition from an oil-dependent economy to a diversified economy. This requires a national plan to develop non-oil sectors such as agriculture, industry, trade, tourism, and services.
3. Stimulating the private sector and investment: This can be achieved by building a policy to support procedures for opening companies, reducing taxes on new and productive investments, and providing credit facilities for small and medium enterprises.
4. Public Finance Reform: Restructuring government spending to reduce current expenditures and increase the share of investment spending in infrastructure, education, health, and other sectors that would create a solid foundation for long-term growth. Working towards harmonious formulation of fiscal and monetary policies to reduce overlap and minimize the negative effects of their intersection, and even unifying fiscal objectives and striving for a common economic vision between them.
In short, parliamentary elections are a necessary but not sufficient condition for achieving economic stability in Iraq. They represent a window of opportunity for change, but the real guarantee lies in changing the political rules that govern the equation, building a national consensus on a long-term reform program, and creating a new relationship based on transparency between citizens and the government.
Iranian Foreign Ministry: The Iraqi elections are crucial, and any foreign interference in them is rejected and condemned.
The Iranian Foreign Ministry stated on Monday that the Iraqi elections represent a "crucial juncture," stressing that foreign interference in this process is "rejected and condemned."
Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Ismail Baghaei said at a press conference, as reported by Iranian media, that "the Iraqi elections represent a crucial juncture for determining the future of the Iraqi people."
He stressed that "any foreign interference in this process is rejected and condemned by Tehran, the Iraqi people and the responsible countries in the region."
He stressed that "past experiences have shown that every American intervention in the affairs of other countries has had negative consequences for peace and stability in those countries and the entire region."
He added that "Iran hopes that the Iraqi elections scheduled for the coming days will proceed in a way that serves the interests of the Iraqi people and contributes to strengthening regional security and stability."
An economist says approving the 2025 budget after the elections will be difficult due to political disagreements.
Antoine explained to Al-Furat News Agency that "the budget is a fundamental principle in countries and requires accurate final accounts, and that political disputes prevented the approval of the 2025 schedules and the preparation of the 2026 budget."
He added that "political conflicts also affected the process, noting that the budget is a routine matter that can be completed within a month, but the conflict between the blocs delayed the process."
With over 16 million users and fifty thousand merchants… how does Qi Card demonstrate that Iraq has become a significant player in digital payments?
Iraq is witnessing a significant boom in digital financial services, with the expansion of electronic payment systems and increasing public confidence in modern technologies. Qi Card is at the forefront of this transformation, being one of the leading national companies that has contributed to changing the country's financial landscape, boasting over 16 million users and more than 50,000 merchants using its advanced electronic system.
Large-scale digital transformation
Since its inception, Qi Card has worked to develop digital financial solutions tailored to various segments of Iraqi society, from employees and retirees to small business owners. Its services facilitate easy withdrawals, transfers, and electronic payments through smart cards linked to mobile applications and ATM networks across all governorates.
Supporting financial inclusion and empowering low-income groups
The widespread adoption of Qi Card has contributed to strengthening the concept of financial inclusion in Iraq, as it has enabled low-income groups to access banking services without needing to deal directly with traditional banks. Thanks to these services, citizens can now receive their salaries, pay their bills, and shop online easily and securely.
Security and trust are the foundation of the experiment's success.
One of the most important reasons for the success of the electronic payment experience in Iraq is the high level of digital trust among citizens. The company employs advanced encryption and security systems that guarantee the confidentiality of user data and prevent any hacking or fraud, which has encouraged more individuals and institutions to adopt digital solutions.
Promising digital economy
Economists indicate that this growth in electronic transactions represents a significant step towards Iraq's transition to a digital economy . With the number of users exceeding 16 million, it is now possible to gauge the societal trend towards reducing reliance on cash and increasing efficiency and transparency in financial transactions.
From Basra to Nineveh: A comprehensive national experience
The expansion of Qi Card services is not limited to the capital, Baghdad, but extends to southern governorates such as Basra and Dhi Qar, reaching as far as Dohuk and Nineveh, where new service centers have been launched to facilitate citizens' access to electronic cards. This expansion reflects a genuine desire to build a comprehensive national network linking all governorates under the umbrella of digital transformation.
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Do you know how much gold Iraq possesses? Find out where Arab countries rank!
The World Gold Council announced on Monday that Iraq and nine other Arab countries collectively possess approximately 1,498 tons of gold reserves, according to its latest data issued for the current month of November.
Five Arab countries hold the largest share
The council explained that the top five Arab countries, namely: Saudi Arabia, Lebanon, Algeria, Iraq and Libya, collectively possess 1,101 tons of gold , which constitutes the largest proportion of Arab gold reserves.
As for the rest of the Arab countries included in the list, which include Egypt, Qatar, Kuwait and Jordan, their combined reserves amount to 397 tons.
Iraq strengthens its reserves and maintains its global ranking
According to the report, Iraq increased its gold reserves to 171.9 tons during August, after it had been 162.7 tons in July, which enabled it to maintain its 29th position globally among the 100 countries included in the ranking of the world’s largest gold reserves.
After 11/11... Mark Savaya and Qaani lead the regional "decisive match" on the Iraqi scene!
Strategic researcher Ali Aghwan warned that the coordination framework faces two difficult choices in the next stage: either renewing the term of Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani to be “the sole leader and owner of the deep state with overwhelming influence over everyone,” or the framework will disintegrate as a result of internal disputes.
Aghwan stressed in a statement followed by “Jarida Platform” that political forces must realize that the final ratification of the election results will open a new phase of popular and political pressure, noting that the countdown will begin as soon as the results are announced, which makes procrastination or clinging to positions and privileges a dangerous gamble.
Aghwan directed a sharp message to the political class, saying that “those clinging to positions, objecting to certain figures, and engaging in battles of attrition must realize that time is short to sort things out,” warning that the Sadrist movement and perhaps the entire Iraqi street will not be patient for long, and that any obstruction of the formation of the government or neglect of the people’s interests “may lead to widespread public anger.”
The strategic researcher concluded by pointing out that a number of regional players, including Mark Savaya, Ali Larijani, Ismail Qaani, and Mohammad Kawtharani, are preparing to play what he described as the 'final match' on Iraqi soil after November 11, in reference to the escalating regional interventions in the Iraqi file during the next stage.
Washington's sanctions are pushing Lukoil to sell its stake in West Qurna 2 and leave Iraq soon.
Economic expert Nabil Al-Marsoumi suggested on Monday that Washington's sanctions are pushing Lukoil to sell its stake in the West Qurna 2 oil field and leave Iraq soon.
Al-Marsoumi stated in a Facebook post, which IQ monitored: "The US sanctions on the Russian company Lukoil, the main operator of the West Qurna 2 field, have begun to negatively impact its operations in Iraq, as Lukoil has started canceling contracts with subcontractors."
He added: "The company has not paid employee salaries for two months due to banks refusing to process bank transfers from the Russian company, as well as its inability to purchase spare parts and its inability to sell its Iraqi oil holdings abroad, with four oil shipments being rejected a week ago."
He continued: "It seems that Lukoil is on its way to selling its 75% stake in the West Qurna field and leaving Iraq soon. A US company might buy its stake if the investment structure is changed from a service contract to a production-sharing agreement. Any delay in Lukoil's liquidation of its operations in Iraq could disrupt production at the field, which produces 420,000 barrels per day."
Urgent | President of the Republic: Holding legislative elections confirms our commitment to constitutional and democratic political life.
President Abdul Latif Jamal Rashid affirmed that holding the sixth legislative elections represents a new and important stage in Iraq’s political and democratic path, noting that this constitutional entitlement embodies the state’s commitment to constitutional and democratic political life.
In a statement issued on the occasion of the elections, the President said, “Our people have proven that they are worthy of continuing their civilizational achievements, and have presented a distinguished democratic model of coexistence among its various components,” calling for “active and broad participation in the electoral process as the best way to correct mistakes, address shortcomings, and develop the political system.”
He added that “electing is a national right and duty, and the Presidency has worked to support all parties concerned with implementing this national entitlement to ensure its integrity and transparency,” stressing “the importance of voters being realistic, honest and trustworthy in choosing the candidates who will represent them in the House of Representatives and be the watchful eye protecting their rights and interests.”
The President concluded by affirming that “the Presidency will continue to support the upcoming House of Representatives in enacting important laws that activate the articles of the Constitution and complete the institutional building of the state on solid foundations of justice and citizenship.”
On election night, Al-Sudani visits the "Coffee and Book" cafe in Karrada and meets with candidate
Yasser Alaa Al-Mutanabbi
Prime Minister and head of the Reconstruction and Development Coalition, Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani, visited the “Coffee and Book” cafe in the Karrada district of central Baghdad this evening, where he met with the cafe manager and election candidate, Dr. Yasser Alaa Al-Mutanabbi, and a number of writers, intellectuals, and artists who frequent the place regularly.
The “Coffee and Book” café is one of the most prominent cultural spaces in the capital, where writers, authors, artists and activists meet to exchange intellectual and creative discussions, and it is known as a cultural and artistic lung for Baghdad.
During his visit, the Sudanese man exchanged friendly conversations with the patrons of the cafe, shared coffee and tea with them, listened to their opinions about the electoral scene and the country's situation, and emphasized his keenness to get closer to the people and share with them the pulse of the cultural and intellectual street.
This visit, which comes on the night of the parliamentary elections, reflects – according to observers – the Sudanese president’s interest in the cultural scene and the role of intellectuals in consolidating democratic awareness, and embodies his vision of making culture an integral part of the development and reconstruction project he is adopting.
The Sudanese man, after casting his vote, said: "The elections were held on their constitutional date."
Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani confirmed on Tuesday that the elections were held on their constitutional date, noting that they were taking place in a safe and stable environment .
“We congratulate the Iraqi people on this democratic celebration,” said Al-Sudani at a press conference held after he cast his vote in the parliamentary elections, praising “the role of journalists in covering the elections.”
He added that "the elections were held on their constitutional date," noting that they "affirm the principle of the peaceful transfer of power."
He stressed that "the elections are taking place in a safe and stable environment," noting that "the government has given great attention to the peaceful transfer of power."
Al-Sudani praised "the role of the security forces in securing the elections."
He explained that "our government has paid attention to strengthening the democratic system and peaceful transfer of power, and we have conducted provincial council elections and regional elections. Today, after making all the necessary preparations for the commission and political forces, we are holding fair elections," noting that "we have ensured the presence of parties and observers to monitor this democratic event."
Watch: Maliki and Abdul Mahdi were among the first to vote in the general election.
Live footage from inside a polling station in Baghdad showed former Prime Ministers Nouri al-Maliki and Adel Abdul Mahdi among the first to cast their votes in the 2025 Iraqi parliamentary elections. They arrived at the polling station in the Rashid Hotel within minutes of voting beginning this morning. The footage also showed Qais al-Khazali, Secretary-General of Asa'ib Ahl al-Haq, at the same polling station.
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