Speaking at the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly, Iraq’s Prime Minister Ali Zeydi outlined his country’s goal of expanding its regional connectivity projects and economic partnerships. Zeydi called on neighboring countries and partners to join the Development Road Project.
Zeydi said the project, which will connect the Grand Faw Port in the Persian Gulf to Europe through Türkiye, would create a strategic corridor for trade, investment, industry and energy. He said they wanted the initiative to be open to partnerships with all neighboring countries and friends.
New connectivity between the Gulf and Europe
The Development Road Project aims to connect the Grand Faw Port in southern Iraq to the border with Türkiye through railway and road networks. The project is intended to establish a freight transport corridor between the Gulf and Europe through Iraq and Türkiye.
Zeydi said connecting the countries of the region through ports, railways, energy lines, trade and investment would strengthen shared interests. He added that these links would also reinforce the common interest in maintaining stability.
Iraq seeks to diversify its energy routes
Zeydi said Iraq was working to establish different export outlets for its oil and develop its routes through energy networks. He said they were focusing on lines that would connect Iraq, Türkiye, Jordan and Syria to global markets.
These steps aim to contribute to energy security and diversify supply routes. Zeydi said they wanted Iraq to become a global hub for energy production and to use its capabilities to strengthen regional and international security.
Baghdad highlights economic partnerships
Zeydi said Iraq’s foreign relations had shifted from military cooperation to economic partnership following the end of the international coalition’s mission, and called for greater engagement with his country. He said Iraq was a genuine partner capable of contributing to security and stability.
Zeydi said Baghdad was extending its hand to all sides on the basis of respect for sovereignty and good-neighborly relations. He added that they supported dialogue and diplomacy to prevent crises from escalating and resolve disputes.
Priority given to placing weapons under constitutional institutions
Addressing domestic politics, Zeydi said they aimed for the Iraqi state to be the decisive authority on decisions of war and peace. He identified placing weapons and instruments of force under the control of constitutional institutions as a priority.
Zeydi said the Iraqi people had paid a heavy price because of wars. He added that, in addition to loss of life, conflicts had placed a heavy burden on the country’s resources and development opportunities.
