Iraqi Government Approves Establishment of National Mobile Company with Vodafone Partnership
In a recent cabinet meeting led by Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Sudani, the Iraqi government reached a significant decision to establish the "National Mobile Company," set to operate with advanced fifth-generation technology in collaboration with Vodafone International.
According to a statement from the Prime Minister’s media office, this initiative will involve contributions from the Ministry of Communications, the National Retirement Authority, and the Iraqi Trade Bank. The establishment of this mobile entity aims to enhance the telecommunications landscape in Iraq by deploying national resources.
Communications Minister Hayam Al-Yasiri elaborated on the initiative, stating that the Cabinet’s decision not only marks the formation of the National Mobile Company but also highlights the participation of the Ministry of Communications through its Public Peace Company. The partnership with Vodafone is expected to facilitate technological advancements while maximizing the employee retirement fund and delivering better services to retirees.
Al-Yasiri noted that the Ministry continues to finalize technical preparations for the project alongside Vodafone and the Media and Communications Authority. She emphasized that this venture is part of the government’s strategic objectives and is scheduled for implementation in the near future.
In December, Al-Yasiri previously disclosed that the Council of Ministers had approved a crucial decision regarding the selection of Vodafone as the operator for the governmental license pertaining to fifth-generation technology. This development stemmed from recommendations provided by a negotiating team formed within the Ministry of Communications.
Furthermore, the recent decision empowers the Ministry of Communications to engage in negotiations aimed at securing financial support necessary for the preliminary phases of the project, with an anticipated launch scheduled for the upcoming months.
This strategic move is expected to bolster the telecommunications infrastructure in Iraq, demonstrating the government’s commitment to enhancing connectivity and advancing the digital economy within the region.