Economy Update – Baghdad
The International Maritime Organization (IMO) has commended Iraq’s dedication to fulfilling international maritime standards, highlighting the nation’s capacity to manage this domain with considerable efficiency.
In line with the government’s strategy to enhance Iraqi institutions and foster adaptability to global changes, the General Company for Iraq Ports has successfully established itself as one of the nation’s leading economic entities, overseeing a critical economic project on behalf of the Iraqi state.
Al-Fartousi emphasized that the company has been actively working for over three years to bolster cooperation and openness with international partners. This effort has led to engagement with numerous global organizations, including the International Maritime Organization, which focuses on marine environmental protection and ensuring the safety of personnel within Iraq’s vital maritime sector.
During this period, Iraq has hosted significant visits from international organizations, reflecting the framework of agreements and protocols that have been established.
Notably, the Minister of Transport, Razzaq Muhaibis Al-Saadawi, extended an official invitation to the Secretary-General of the IMO, Arsenio Domines, to visit Iraq. This invitation was accepted, and Domines commenced his visit by inspecting Umm Qasr Port before continuing to Port FAO to assess Iraq’s compliance with international maritime requirements.
Al-Fartousi reported that the Secretary-General acknowledged Iraq’s commitment to advancing its maritime sector, observing that the country is on a path toward significant openness, thanks to a pool of qualified young professionals poised to manage this sector effectively.
Furthermore, an official request has been made to the Secretary-General of the IMO for scholarships to enable the company’s staff to pursue doctoral degrees. Additionally, the company has formulated a strategy to train and develop national personnel by enrolling them in academic programs at the International Maritime University, the only institution globally operating under the aegis of the IMO.
This initiative includes plans to send several marine engineers with bachelor’s degrees to pursue master’s and doctorate programs, underscoring the Iraqi government’s long-term vision to develop its workforce while fostering collaboration with the international community to adhere to global standards.
Al-Fartousi further highlighted that these endeavors align with the current Iraqi government’s objectives to elevate Iraq’s status within the global maritime landscape. Key initiatives include the Faw Port Project and the Development Road, which are among the most significant economic projects in the region.
He concluded by affirming that the effective management of these projects is a testament to Iraq’s commitment to advancing its maritime sector according to the latest international benchmarks, thereby enhancing its competitive capabilities and unlocking new opportunities for economic and trade growth.
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