Prime Minister Ali Falih al-Zaidi urged Italian companies to support Iraq’s economic and industrial development plans. He discussed these goals with Italian Ambassador Niccolò Fontana during a meeting at Baghdad’s Government Palace. Their talks examined trade, technology, investment, and cooperation across several productive sectors.
Italian investment could accelerate Iraq’s efforts to modernize infrastructure and expand private enterprise. Baghdad wants Italian companies to contribute expertise, advanced equipment, and long-term capital. Moreover, the government hopes these partnerships will strengthen ties with Italy and the European Union. As a result, Iraq could gain wider access to European markets and technologies.
Al-Zaidi highlighted the energy sector as a major area for cooperation. Iraq needs modern systems that can improve electricity production, transmission, and distribution. Additionally, Italian engineering companies can support renewable energy and efficient power projects. Their experience could help Iraq strengthen services while reducing waste and operating costs.
The prime minister also encouraged Italian firms to enter Iraq’s industrial sector. Baghdad wants to increase domestic production and reduce its dependence on imported goods. Therefore, new factories could strengthen local supply chains and support national economic growth. Industrial partnerships could also bring modern production methods into Iraqi markets.
Agriculture formed another important part of the discussions. Iraq wants modern irrigation systems that use less water and improve farm productivity. Furthermore, Italian agricultural technology could help farmers manage water, crops, and equipment more efficiently. Better farming methods could strengthen food security and support rural communities.
Baghdad also wants deeper economic integration with European countries. Italy can connect Iraqi businesses with Mediterranean and European commercial networks. Consequently, stronger trade relations could create new markets for Iraqi products. They could also attract companies seeking opportunities across the region.
Iraq continues to diversify its international economic partnerships. The government wants several global partners instead of relying on limited commercial relationships. Moreover, broader cooperation can bring more competition, knowledge, and investment options. This approach can also protect economic projects from changes in regional markets.
Technology transfer remains central to Iraq’s development strategy. Italian companies possess strong experience in machinery, manufacturing, energy systems, and agricultural equipment. Therefore, joint projects could provide practical training for Iraqi engineers and technicians. Local workers could also develop valuable skills through direct participation.
However, foreign companies need clear regulations and reliable business procedures. Iraq must simplify licensing, protect contracts, and improve access to financial services. Additionally, transparent policies can strengthen investor confidence and reduce commercial risks. Consistent rules could encourage companies to make larger and longer commitments.
Ambassador Niccolò Fontana expressed Italy’s interest in expanding cooperation with Iraq. He supported stronger private-sector participation in reconstruction and infrastructure programs. Furthermore, Rome wants broader commercial links between Italian enterprises and Iraqi institutions. These links could create lasting partnerships across several economic sectors.
New projects could also support employment throughout Iraq. Construction, manufacturing, agriculture, and energy projects require workers with a wide range of skills. Consequently, companies could create jobs for engineers, technicians, managers, and local service providers. Smaller Iraqi businesses could also gain contracts through larger investment projects.
Private-sector expansion could reduce pressure on government employment. It could also give young Iraqis more career choices and professional training. Meanwhile, international companies could benefit from Iraq’s workforce and growing consumer market. Both sides could therefore gain from carefully planned commercial cooperation.
Italian investment could help Iraq combine European technology with local resources and labor. Such cooperation could improve national infrastructure while increasing industrial and agricultural productivity. In addition, stronger institutional ties could support future agreements between Baghdad and Rome. These partnerships could also improve Iraq’s commercial connections with European Union markets.
The meeting reflected Baghdad’s wider plan for economic diversification and international cooperation. Iraq wants Italian companies to become active partners in long-term national development. Meanwhile, Italy wants stronger trade, investment, and institutional relations with Iraq. Practical agreements will now determine how quickly both countries can advance these goals.
