Kurdistan Economy

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Norwegian MPs welcomed by President Barzani

ERBIL, Kurdistan Region (Kurdistan 24) – On Monday, President Barzani welcomed a delegation from the Norwegian Parliament consisting of Asmund Aukrust and Mani Hussaini, MPs from the Norwegian Labor Party, in Pirmam

The Norwegian Parliamentary delegation emphasized the purpose of their visit to the Kurdistan Region and discussed the role of their country in fighting against terrorism.

They also stressed on the mines clearing in Kurdistan Region, and their support to non-governmental organizations in the region.

The guest delegation underlined the friendship and relations between Norwegian and Kurdistan peoples, furthermore highlighted their country’s supports to Kurdistan Region’s stability.

President Barzani extended his gratitude to the Norwegian people and government regarding their assistance to the Kurdistan Peshmerga force during fighting against terrorists, also gave compliments about the significant role of the Norwegian government assisting the relevant parties in Kurdistan Region clearing mines.

The political circumstance in Iraq as well as the whole zone, relations between the Kurdistan Regional Government and Federal Iraqi Government, and Kurdistan Parliamentary General Elections that will be held next October were also discussed in the meeting.

https://www.kurdistan24.net/en/story/36 ... 2%A0%C2%A0

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President Barzani welcomed Ambassador

of Kingdom of Netherlands

ERBIL, Kurdistan Region (Kurdistan 24) – President Barzani welcomed the newly appointed Ambassador of the Kingdom of the Netherlands to Iraq, Janet Alberda, on Monday, in Pirmam

In the meeting, the new and temporary Consul General, Roelof Van Ees attended too, the Dutch Ambassador to Iraq expressed her high valuation for President Barzani’s role in leading the fight against ISIS terrorists. As well as she reaffirmed improving the bilateral relations between her country and Kurdistan Region.

In another part of the meeting, the Consul General of Netherlands in Erbil expressed his pleasure about holding the Kurdistan Parliamentary General Elections in October.

He also hoped that the results of the election will strengthen the establishments and more stability in the Kurdistan Region.

The political situation in Iraq and the region, outcome of President Barzani's recent visit to Baghdad, relations between the Kurdistan Regional Government and Federal Iraqi Government, as well as the inner circumstance in the Kurdistan Region were also discussed in the meeting.

https://www.kurdistan24.net/en/story/36 ... ds-to-Iraq

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Cheques for farmers start tomorrow

ERBIL, Kurdistan Region (Kurdistan 24) – The Directorate of Silos of Sulaimani Province advised the farmers that the payment process will start tomorrow September 23rd, and from Piramagrun town

The Sulaimani Silos Directorate announced that farmers with receipts 411 to 545 can visit the Accountancy Department of the Sulaimani Silos Directorate to collect their cheques tomorrow.

According to the sources, since September 12th, the cheques of the purchased wheat from farmers within Sulaimani province, Halabja, and the Independent Administrations of Garmian and Raperin have been received by the Directorate of Sulaimani Silos.

It is estimated 67 billion 84 million dinars arrived in the Directorate of Sulaimani Silos, but due to an issue by Baghdad, handing over wheat entitlements delayed for more than 10 days.

On Sunday, Nasrin Ahmad, the manager of Directorate of Sulaimani Silos, advised Kurdistan 24, they are in constant contact with Baghdad to sort out the issue, so they can start give the money to farmers as soon as possible like Erbil and Duhok.

This year, the Iraqi Government received 700,000 tons of wheat from the Kurdistan Region, according to the agreement between both Region and Iraqi Agricultural Ministries.

The shares from Sulaimani, Halabja and the two Independent Administrations were 282 thousand tons, which becomes 40% of the total average of wheat purchased by the Kurdistan Region.

https://www.kurdistan24.net/en/story/36 ... s-tomorrow

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Iraq approves weapons for Peshmerga

ERBIL (Kurdistan24) – Iraqi Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein announced on Tuesday that the Iraqi government has approved the provision of heavy weapons to the Peshmerga forces, reaffirming that there are no obstacles regarding the matter. Speaking to Kurdistan24 in New York, Hussein emphasized that the Iraqi Ministry of Defense has clarified there are no issues implementing the decision

Hussein also provided an update on the ongoing discussions between the Iraqi federal government and the US regarding a new security agreement. He indicated that while both parties are still negotiating specific points, an agreement could be reached soon. "If we finalize the agreement, the statement will be released next week," the minister stated.

In addition to security matters, Hussein commented on recent economic discussions between Baghdad and Erbil. He confirmed that an Iraqi financial delegation recently visited Erbil to participate in meetings of the Economic Council. According to the foreign minister, the issues surrounding salary payments and budget allocations have been resolved, though he noted that delays were caused by bureaucratic processes in Baghdad.

https://www.kurdistan24.net/en/story/36 ... s-Iraqi-FM

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Development in bamboo industry

ERBIL, Kurdistan Region (Kurdistan 24) – Anji town is famous for having Bamboo forests, Anji is within the Huzhou province. The tree is a fast-growing plant, has 300 species, and different items and products can be made from this tree

The Kurdistan 24 paid a visit to Anji and explored the creativity around this green valuable tree. It can be used to make different things in our daily used items.

It can have a very significant role in environmental protection, reducing the pollution, and can be used as an alternative to plastics.

Bamboo is from the nature, it is within the natural chain, even in the recycling process, plays a pivotal role.

Kurdistan 24 has had a tour around and is showing how important it is and can be very beneficial from to make countless and different items.

https://www.kurdistan24.net/en/story/37 ... o-industry

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Russia Looks to Strengthen Relations with Kurdistan

The Russian Ambassador to Iraq, Elbrus Kutrashev, has stated that Moscow is closely monitoring its relations with the Kurdistan Region to strengthen and promote ties in various fields, benefiting both sides

In a speech at the joint international conference between Soran University and the Institute of Oriental Studies (Russian Academy of Sciences), Kutrashev emphasized that Russia is focused on enhancing and developing relations with the Kurdistan Region across different sectors.

"Moscow views its relations with the Kurdistan Region as part of the bilateral relations between Russia and Iraq and values the loyalty of the Kurdish people to Russia, which has been reiterated more than once," he noted.

"The history of Kurdish-Russian relations dates back to the 18th century, when the East became the focal point of confrontations in the foreign policy of the Russian Empire," added the Russian envoy.

"In the mid-20th century, the Kurdish liberation leader Mullah Mustafa Barzani and his companions sought refuge in the Soviet Union for an extended period. Many of them established family ties with the Russian people, and many of their descendants now constitute an important part of the Russian diaspora in Kurdistan," explained Kutrashev.

"Russia, in Iraq and other countries in the region, sees the Kurds as an important factor in the domestic political balance, particularly in Syria, Iran, and Turkey. We have very active political and diplomatic relations with our Kurdish friends, which is why continuous visits and meetings should be organized to discuss current issues at regional and global levels," the ambassador indicated during his speech in Soran.

“Government and commercial institutions are committed to promoting and strengthening the economic capacity of the Kurdistan Region to implement joint projects in trade, investment, information exchange, and many other areas. Two companies are the largest investors in the oil and gas sector in the Kurdistan Region, which is significant,” he added.

"This year, the Russian government has provided 70 scholarships for Kurdish students at prominent universities in the country. I must say that these scholarships are available for all of Iraq, but since there are different regions in the country, the number has now increased to 70 per year."

He also mentioned that efforts are being made to establish direct relations between the Kurdistan Regional Government and Russian universities, including the opening of a branch for the Russian language.

"I am sure that this will give more impetus to relations between the Kurdistan Region and Russia, providing a good opportunity to exchange experiences and build beneficial ties," he stated.

The Russian Ambassador to Iraq expressed his pleasure in visiting the Kurdistan Region, saying, “For my part, I am very comfortable visiting the Kurdistan Region, whether in Erbil, Sulaymaniyah, or other cities."

A joint international conference of Soran University and the Institute of Oriental Studies (Russian Academy of Sciences) will be held in Erbil. The conference will discuss several issues related to the history of Kurdish-Russian relations, the dimensions and consequences of relations from the Soviet Union to the present, and will exchange views to further develop these relations.

https://www.basnews.com/en/babat/861931

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Over 5,000 Projects in Five Years

Kurdistan’s Ministry of Municipalities and Tourism announced on Monday that during the five years of the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG)’s ninth cabinet, more than 5,000 various service projects, costing over four billion dinars, have been completed

The ministry also stated that while most of the projects have been completed, some are still under construction and will be finished within a specified timeframe.

According to a report by the Ministry of Municipalities and Tourism, during the five years of the ninth cabinet led by Prime Minister Masrour Barzani, the Ministry implemented 5,044 service projects across municipal sectors, including water, sewerage, tourism, archaeology, and other areas, with a total expenditure of 4,663,475,902,888 dinars.

The ministry’s statistics show that these projects were funded through the investment budget, revenues of the Ministry of Municipalities and Tourism, regular and special budgets, and with support from foreign organizations, universities, and agencies. Additional projects are planned to be implemented in the near future.

The projects are classified by sector as follows:

•Municipal Sector: 2,004 projects implemented at a cost of 2,795,337,323,322 dinars.

•Water Sector: 2,755 projects implemented at a cost of 1,785,248,176,551 dinars.

•Archaeological Sector: 167 projects implemented at a cost of 34,148,075,900 dinars.

•Tourism Sector: 118 projects implemented at a cost of 48,742,327,115 dinars.

https://www.basnews.com/en/babat/862000

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Diplomatic and Economic Relations

Safeen Dizayee, Head of the Kurdistan Regional Government’s (KRG) Department of Foreign Relations, highlighted on Thursday the significant progress made in diplomatic and economic ties under the KRG’s ninth cabinet

Dizayee emphasized that the KRG has been actively strengthening its relationships with both regional and international countries, during an interview with Kurdistan 24. He pointed to the increased number of high-level visits to Erbil by presidents, prime ministers, and senior officials as a clear indicator of the Region’s growing diplomatic engagement.

In addition to diplomatic achievements, Dizayee noted that the KRG’s relations with foreign countries have also expanded on an economic level. He underscored the importance of international partnerships and cooperation in bolstering Kurdistan’s economic standing.

These remarks reflect the KRG’s broader efforts to solidify its global standing, particularly amid the wider region’s ongoing challenges, showcasing a robust commitment to fostering international relations.

https://www.basnews.com/en/babat/862382

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KDP President’s diplomatic legacy

ERBIL (Kurdistan24) - The sixth session of the Kurdistan Region's Parliament elections holds immense significance for protecting the status and future of the Kurdistan Region

This importance extends beyond the region’s borders, motivating Kurds abroad to participate in the electoral process, viewing it as their duty to support and shape the future of their homeland.

Since 1992, the Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP) has consistently worked to institutionalize the Kurdistan Region's relationships with the outside world, playing a crucial role in building and sustaining these diplomatic ties.

One of the most notable achievements in this endeavor has been the establishment and development of the Foreign Relations Office of the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG). This institution, particularly under KDP leadership, has played a pivotal role in promoting the Kurdish cause and securing the Kurdistan Region’s status as a recognized legal and constitutional entity in the international community.

The office manages the Kurdistan Region's diplomatic relations with powerful nations across the globe, treating each continent and country with tailored strategies. This daily diplomatic engagement helps solidify the region's standing in international affairs.

A key factor behind this institution's success is the strong foundation that the KDP built during the Kurdish revolution, fostering relationships with countries around the world long before the formal establishment of the KRG.

Safeen Dizayee, the Head of the KRG Department of Foreign Relations, highlighted this history in a recent interview with Kurdistan24. He noted that during the revolution, the KDP played a vital role in conveying the Kurdish people’s struggle for independence and autonomy to the world through Kurdish students studying abroad.

"There was a solid foundation, and they played a significant role in building relationships in the 70s and 80s. After 1992, it took on another form with the establishment of the Kurdistan Regional Government and the introduction of parliamentary elections,” Dizayee said.

This long-standing diplomatic effort has enabled the KDP to foster strong international relationships, especially with Western, European, and regional Arab nations. The party's extensive diplomatic experience has been instrumental in strengthening KRG institutions and elevating the Kurdistan Region's global presence.

Madhat Sleman, a political observer, noted that "President Barzani’s personality had a significant impact on establishing these relations, particularly with Arab countries. Today, the KRG enjoys robust diplomatic ties with both regional countries and global powers such as Europe, Russia, and the West.”

Over the years, numerous presidents and high-ranking officials from powerful nations have visited the Kurdistan Region, ensuring meetings with President Barzani before leaving the territory—an indication of the respect and influence the KDP and the Kurdistan Region have gained on the international stage.

The continued strengthening of the KDP is seen as synonymous with the strengthening of the Kurdistan Region itself, underscoring the importance of diplomatic efforts and the enduring impact of the Foreign Relations Office in safeguarding the region's political and constitutional integrity.

https://www.kurdistan24.net/en/story/37 ... tan-Region

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US-Iraq Talks
Spotlight on Kurdistan's Role

Supporting the Kurdistan Region emerged as a focal point in recent meetings between Iraqi delegation and top US officials in Washington, according to a senior Kurdish official

During an interview with BasNews, Safeen Dizayi, the head of the Kurdistan Regional Government's (KRG) Department of Foreign Relations, highlighted the main topics discussed during the meetings. Dizayi also emphasized the Kurdistan Region's importance in these discussions and the significant outcome of Prime Minister Masrour Barzani's recent visit to Washington.

[Below is the interview which was translated from Kurdish and edited for clarity and length.].

BasNews: Can you elaborate on the delegation's visit and discussions in the United States?

Dizayi: Certainly, we engaged in a series of meetings with ministers, parliament members, and advisors, covering various aspects including military, economic, and energy. My participation focused on the crucial meeting with President Biden, where we discussed Iraq's future relations with the United States. This encompassed not only military cooperation but also economic, energy, civil society, democratic, academic, scientific, and environmental dimensions. Over the past two days, we delved into these topics to forge a shared understanding and collaborative framework, setting a roadmap for bilateral relations.

BasNews: What stood out to you in the meeting between President Biden and Sudani?

Dizayi: A notable emphasis was placed on Iraq's imperative to diversify its economy by leveraging its energy resources, particularly natural gas, to foster self-reliance and political stability while ensuring the presence of Coalition forces. Additionally, there was acknowledgment of US support for Peshmerga forces and the resolution of Erbil-Baghdad disputes.

BasNews: Did the meeting between President Biden and Sudani address support for the Kurdistan Region?

Dizayi: Yes, support for the Kurdistan Region was indeed on the agenda. The discussions also endorsed the re-export of Kurdistan Regional Government's oil, benefiting both the region and Iraq, along with American companies involved.

BasNews: Were there any commitments from the Iraqi delegation regarding Kurdistan's salary and oil issues during their discussions with President Biden?

Dizayi: While the issue of salaries remains internal, it holds significance, and the United States advocates for the resolution of Erbil-Baghdad disputes, including the matter of Kurdistan's oil exports, which necessitates concerted efforts.

BasNews: How did the points raised during Kurdistan Region PM Masrour Barzani's visit to Washington influence US expectations from Sudani regarding the Kurdistan Region?

Dizayi: Prime Minister Barzani provided comprehensive insights and details during his visit, augmenting the information available to the United States through its consulates and embassies. This firsthand account empowered discussions with the federal government, enhancing the Kurdistan Region's standing in addressing pertinent issues.

BasNews: Considering US support for the Kurdistan Region in resolving its disputes with Baghdad, as evident in the Biden-Sudani meeting, how pivotal is the Kurdistan Region's role in fostering peace in the Middle East?

Dizayi: The Kurdistan Region's strategic significance is underscored by its robust economic, political, social, and democratic foundations, established since 1991. Its stability and security align with US interests in the region. The recent congressional advocacy further underscores the desire to support the region, emphasizing the need for internal problem-solving complemented by external assistance.

BasNews: Was your inclusion in the Iraqi delegation at the behest of Baghdad or Erbil?

Dizayi: Our participation stemmed from Sudani's invitation, echoing a similar engagement at the United Nations General Assembly last September. This demonstrates efforts towards bolstering relations and addressing shared challenges.

https://www.basnews.com/en/babat/845797

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Economic Development and Job Creation

Kurdistan Region Prime Minister Masrour Barzani expressed his pleasure at the opening of Copper wire and Cable Company, and stated that the establishment of this factory is part of a series of projects aimed at building a strong economic infrastructure in the region

In a speech at the opening ceremony of the Erbil Copper wire and Cable Company, On Wednesday, October 2nd, PM Barzani said, “I am very pleased to open these factories that were built through the Copper and Cable Erbil Company,” and indicated that "it is a matter of pride to see the industrial sector in the Kurdistan Region improving day by day."

“What I saw today is a group of factories that all complement each other to produce the necessary cables and wires for the market,” added the Kurdish Prime Minister.

“During my visit to the factories, I asked how these cables are made and where their raw materials come from. Most of the raw materials are collected from scraps that were previously exported, but now they are used in this factory. A high-end cable will be launched and prepared to meet international standards," PM Barzani noted.

"I hope that one day Kurdistan will be able to utilize its available natural resources and minerals to manufacture such products," he said.

“I was very happy to hear that hundreds of jobs have been created through these factories, allowing many families to work here. This is part of building a strong economic infrastructure in Kurdistan, where the development of the industrial sector has been a key focus of the Kurdistan Regional Government's policy programs," concluded the Prime Minister.

https://www.basnews.com/en/babat/862202

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Plan for Major Tourism Project

Kurdistan Region Prime Minister Masrour Barzani announced on Wednesday that a master plan has been developed for one of the largest tourism projects in the Middle East, as part of ongoing reforms by his cabinet

These remarks were made during the inauguration of the Radisson Blu Hotel on Mount Korek in the Soran Independent Administration. The hotel is a vital component of the Korek Tourism Complex, which aims to attract both local and international visitors.

In his speech at the opening ceremony, Prime Minister Barzani highlighted the region’s natural beauty and historical significance, outlining plans to expand infrastructure and facilities to enhance the tourism sector.

He commended the contributions of Sirwan Barzani and the Darin Group in bringing the prestigious Radisson Blu brand to Kurdistan’s mountains, stating, “This hotel is a sign that the Kurdish people not only defend their mountains but also share their beauty and history with the world.”

Looking to the future, PM Barzani detailed the Kurdistan Regional Government’s strategy for tourism expansion, which includes launching a campaign to attract foreign tourists. This strategy will involve improvements to roads, airports, and other infrastructure to support large-scale tourism initiatives, ultimately aiming to boost the region’s economic growth while showcasing Kurdistan’s rich cultural heritage to the global community.

The Prime Minister also emphasized the historical importance of Korek Mountain, recalling its role during the Kurdish struggles of the September and Gulan Revolutions and its significance as a site of coexistence among diverse religious and ethnic groups. He expressed gratitude to the Peshmerga forces, whose dedication has facilitated the peaceful development of such projects.

In closing, PM Barzani congratulated the investors involved in the Radisson Blu project and reiterated the government’s commitment to supporting the growth of the tourism sector. The opening of the Radisson Blu Hotel represents a crucial step in promoting the Kurdistan Region as a top destination for travelers, showcasing its unique blend of natural beauty, history, and peaceful coexistence.

https://www.basnews.com/en/babat/862938

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$17 Billion in Investment Projects

The ninth cabinet of the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG), under the leadership of Prime Minister Masrour Barzani, has overseen approximately $17 billion in investment projects since its formation, an official stated on Tuesday

"From the start of the ninth cabinet on July 28, 2019, until October 3, 2024, investment licenses have been granted to 419 projects, and more than 1,612 investment projects have been approved,” Mohammad Shukri, Chairman of the Kurdistan Region Investment Board, told BasNews.

He emphasized that this period has seen an unprecedented level of investment in the Kurdistan Region.

The ninth cabinet has encouraged investment across various sectors, focusing on diversifying the economy. Shukri highlighted the breakdown of projects as follows:

116 in industry
56 in tourism
17 in agriculture
40 in education
27 in health
9 in sports
2 in the arts
43 in residential development
104 in commerce
3 in services
2 in banking

He credited the timely completion of these projects to Prime Minister Barzani's supervision and commitment to building the Region's economic infrastructure, particularly in roads, services, agriculture, industry, and tourism.

Soon after taking office in 2019, Prime Minister Barzani began implementing his cabinet’s reform program, which focused on developing all sectors, especially diversifying the economy to make the Region less dependent on oil revenues alone.

During a recent interview aired by Al-Arabiya and Al-Hadath channels, the Kurdish leader reminded viewers, “From the moment I assumed office of the Kurdistan Regional Government’s (KRG) Ninth Cabinet, I focused on diversifying revenue streams. We are no longer solely reliant on energy; oil and gas are not the only sources of income for the Kurdistan Region.”

https://www.basnews.com/en/babat/863533

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Dam to Boost Tourism and Water Security

Kurdistan Prime Minister Masrour Barzani inaugurated one of the strategic projects of the current Ninth Cabinet, the Gomespan Dam, located northeast of Erbil. Speaking at the opening ceremony, he emphasized that the dam will be an important tourist area that will benefit the people of Khoshnawti Valley and the surrounding region

On Wednesday, PM Barzani officially opened the dam and laid the foundation stone for the Gomespan-Smaquli highway. In his speech, he highlighted the significance of dam-building projects for the region, noting that they can provide water security for all of the Kurdistan Region.

“The water was being wasted. When we decided to build the dam, we had many ideas on how we could utilize it. Everyone knows that these dams will help farmers benefit from the water. We have much bigger plans to develop the tourism sector in this region. We are currently working on a master plan and hope that God will give us the opportunity to continue this task and develop such projects,” stated the Prime Minister.

“This dam will be a significant and encouraging factor for tourism development in the region, as well as for addressing climate change and enhancing fish resources. Most importantly, it will serve as a vital tourist area around Erbil,” he added.

"I have no doubt that it will be a very attractive place for people to visit from Erbil and other Kurdish cities. I have seen the master plan; it is truly wonderful and beautiful. Although it has not yet reached its final stage, this project will contribute to the development of the economic sector and the creation of a stronger economic infrastructure, as well as generating jobs for the people of the region," the Kurdish leader explained.

"This is one of the most beautiful and significant projects we have initiated around Erbil, and we will develop and expand it. Additionally, there are other projects aimed at water collection, building dams, and creating ponds. I hope the people of Erbil and other cities will come soon, making this a pleasant place to spend time and enjoy, God willing," the Prime Minister concluded.

The Gomespan Dam is located 35 kilometers northeast of Erbil and covers an area of 6,125,000 square meters. According to sources, the reservoir relies on rainwater and local springs, with a storage capacity expected to be around 115 million cubic meters.

https://www.basnews.com/en/babat/863607

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KRG’s Ninth Cabinet Completes

594 Road Projects

The Kurdistan Region’s Ministry of Reconstruction and Housing has revealed that 594 road projects have been implemented during the ninth cabinet, at a cost of 954 billion 819 million dinars

Agrin Abdullah, Deputy Minister of Reconstruction and Housing, told BasNews that since the beginning of the ninth cabinet of the Kurdistan Regional Government, under the direction of Kurdistan Region Prime Minister Masrour Barzani, the ministry has undertaken construction projects involving roads, bridges, tunnels, and other infrastructure.

The scale of the work completed in less than six years is equivalent to what had been accomplished over the previous ten years.

“What has been achieved in the areas of roads, bridges, and tunnels during the ninth cabinet surpasses what was done in the previous 10 years,” Abdullah said

He added, “75 major road projects, totaling 1,363 kilometers in length, have been completed at a cost of 913 billion dinars. Additionally, 310 projects covering 1,390 kilometres were completed at a cost of 27 billion dinars, and 209 projects spanning 515 kilometres were carried out at a cost of 13 billion 393 million dinars.”

Abdullah highlighted several significant projects, including the dual-carriageway between Erbil and Duhok and many smaller projects such as the Zakho-Batlish tunnel roads.

In Sulaymaniyah province, projects have progressed well, including the Dukan-Chawarqurna third phase, Halabja-Said Sadiq, Kalar-Kafri, Penjwen-Bashmakh, and Kalar-Derbandikhan roads. He also mentioned the laying of the foundation stone for the Halabja Tuwaqut, Qlija, and Tuwaqut bridges by the Prime Minister, as well as the dual-carriageway between Erbil and Sulaymaniyah toward Koya, which cost 460 billion Dinars.

https://www.basnews.com/en/babat/863917