Baghdad, Iraq – On Tuesday, the Iraqi Cabinet held its 10th regular session, chaired by Prime Minister Muhammed S. Al-Sudani. The meeting addressed key national developments and reviewed ongoing government projects. As part of the effort to boost the telecommunications sector and align with the government program, the Cabinet approved the establishment of the National Mobile Telecommunications Company. This new company will operate Iraq’s 5G national license, in collaboration with Vodafone Group.
The Cabinet outlined the specifics of the project. The Ministry of Communications, the National Board of Pension, and the Trade Bank of Iraq (TBI) will participate in the company’s establishment. Each entity will contribute an equal one-third share of the company’s capital. This contribution will serve as a long-term investment.
Additionally, the Cabinet set clear procedures for the new company. The participating government entities will need Cabinet approval for their representatives on the General Assembly. These representatives will also need approval for major strategic decisions, such as adjusting shareholders’ equity and determining share allocations for public offering. The Minister of Communications will oversee the project’s implementation and provide regular progress reports.
In terms of infrastructure, the Cabinet made important decisions regarding stalled and ongoing projects. The Cabinet increased the funding for the rehabilitation of the road linking Imam Ali Bridge to the Shalamcheh Border Crossing in Basra Province. This decision also included a boost in the contingency amount to ensure timely completion.
Another significant decision was to expand the Al-Rifai Sewage Project in Dhi Qar Province by adding an electricity supply component. Similarly, the Balad Water Project in Salah al-Din Province will receive additional funding to complete its construction. The Cabinet also approved a new component for the Chaldean Patriarchate headquarters construction project.
The Cabinet addressed energy issues by adjusting the cost components for the Salah al-Din Thermal Power Plant project. The new plan reallocates funds to improve the management, training, and operation of the plant. The reallocation of funds will happen without extra costs to the Iraqi-Chinese framework agreement.
The Cabinet further approved procurement procedures for infrastructure projects in Salah al-Din, following budget law provisions. In terms of foreign policy, the Cabinet approved several diplomatic agreements. It endorsed the Memorandum of Understanding on mutual visa exemption for diplomatic passport holders between Iraq and Morocco.
The session also approved the establishment of an Indian Consulate General in Najaf Province. Additionally, the Cabinet moved forward with the Air Services Agreement between Iraq and Jordan, submitting it for approval and ratification by the Council of Representatives.
The Cabinet’s actions aim to strengthen Iraq’s telecommunications infrastructure, address delayed projects, and foster diplomatic relations, marking a significant step in the country’s development.
