Baghdad – raqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani met with Qatari Transport Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulla Al Thani. The leaders gathered in Baghdad to strengthen ties in key infrastructure sectors. Their talks focused on transportation, port development, and the Iraq Development Road project.
Both officials explored ways to expand cooperation in public transport, aviation, and port management. They reviewed strategies aimed at improving logistics and regional connectivity. Their shared goal is to create long-term economic benefits for both nations.
The discussion emphasized the importance of the Iraq Development Road project. This strategic initiative aims to transform Iraq into a vital global trade corridor. It will link the Al-Faw Grand Port in southern Iraq to the Turkish border.
The leaders highlighted the project’s potential to increase trade across the Middle East and Europe. By connecting East and West, the Development Road will fuel economic integration. It also offers long-term sustainability for partner nations.
Moreover, the project includes building railways and highways for land and cargo transport. The first phase targets a capacity of 3.5 million tons. The second phase aims to double that figure to 7.5 million tons.
Energy pipelines will also be built along the route. These pipelines will help secure energy transportation while diversifying regional export options.
Earlier in April 2024, Iraq signed a four-party agreement to move the project forward. The agreement includes Turkey, the UAE, and Qatar. This collective effort strengthens international collaboration on the Iraq Development Road project.
Transport Minister Razzaq Al-Saadawi recently confirmed progress on the railway’s final design. Turkey is also coordinating with Bulgaria, Hungary, and Serbia. This move seeks to connect the Development Road with broader European transport networks.
Looking ahead, the massive $17 billion project will create jobs, attract investors, and drive regional growth. It positions Iraq as a critical logistics hub for global commerce.
Clearly, the Iraq Development Road project is more than infrastructure. It is a vision for economic transformation and lasting international cooperation.
