Economy News – Baghdad
In a significant development for Iraq’s telecommunications sector, Minister of Communications Hayam Al-Yasiri announced on Monday the formalization of a partnership with British telecommunications giant Vodafone to initiate the rollout of a fifth-generation (5G) mobile network. During her address at the Iraqi-British Business Council economic conference, Al-Yasiri emphasized the government’s commitment to advancing digital transformation and achieving comprehensive automation across the nation.
Al-Yasiri acknowledged the challenges faced by Iraq over the past two decades, including the aftermath of the previous regime, persistent terrorism, and adverse economic and security conditions, which have hindered progress in the telecommunications sector. However, she noted that the current administration, benefiting from improved security and political stability, is poised to expedite reform within the sector.
Al-Yasiri elaborated on the substantial telecommunications infrastructure in Iraq, which includes three major networks known as Backbone. These networks, developed with significant investments from the state, utilize technology from leading providers such as Huawei and Nokia. This infrastructure supports over 4 million optical fiber lines connecting households through Viber Phone, facilitating BroadBand technology aimed at enhancing internet access across the country.
Highlighting Iraq’s comprehensive internet access, the minister stated that Iraq achieves a full connectivity rate for the internet through various means, including both fixed and mobile services, thanks to the issuance of multiple operating licenses.
Al-Yasiri pointed out Iraq’s geographic strategic advantage as it serves as a critical transit route connecting the Persian Gulf with Europe via Turkey. This corridor is particularly favorable for the passage of light cables compared to longer sea routes, thereby facilitating international communication and investment.
Under the current government, efforts have been made to bolster the capacity of the Iraqi corridor from 10 GB to an impressive 1,800 GB within months, with a continual increase anticipated. Al-Yasiri emphasized that this initiative aims not only to enhance revenue generation but also to build trust in the Iraqi corridor, thereby contributing to national security and economic stability.
The Minister also invited large international telecommunications firms to explore extensive investment opportunities within Iraq, emphasizing the country’s urgent need for establishing international commercial data centers. Contracts have already been signed with several global telecommunications providers, including Zain Oman Tel, with plans for additional partnerships, including negotiations with Ooredoo.
Noting the competitive global landscape for data centers, Al-Yasiri remarked that while Iraq has a number of smaller data centers, the government is working towards establishing a significant global data center in Basra, with aspirations for two more centers in central and northern regions, such as Mosul and Kirkuk.
Al-Yasiri highlighted the interest of local companies in partnering with international firms to provide necessary infrastructure such as land and electricity, complemented by a robust fiber network available throughout the country.
In terms of technological advancements, Al-Yasiri mentioned ongoing initiatives in all sectors of the Iraqi state to leverage advancements in artificial intelligence as part of the fourth industrial revolution. A committee, under the auspices of Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani, has been formed to address issues relating to artificial intelligence.
The Ministry of Communications plans to establish a training center focused on developing expertise in artificial intelligence. Al-Yasiri affirmed the potential of Iraqi youth to excel in this domain, which could allow them to pursue opportunities internationally.
Emphasizing the necessity for investment in artificial intelligence, she delineated two essential levels for development: the production of expertise and training in AI applications. Notably, several international companies are offering free training programs for Iraqi youth in this field to enhance their skills and employability.
Moreover, Al-Yasiri confirmed ongoing projects aimed at digital transformation and automation, with a commitment to achieving these goals while inviting proposals from stakeholders. She reiterated the importance of safeguarding intellectual property, recognizing it as a critical legal and ethical issue, and underlined the need for legislative efforts to reinforce intellectual property protections in Iraq.
Concluding her address, Al-Yasiri reaffirmed the landmark agreement with Vodafone, which aligns with the government’s aspirations for a National Mobile Phone License and the continuation of the rollout of 5G technology within Iraq.