Iraqi Prime Minister Ali Al Zaidi Appeals to UN for Global Investment and Economic Reform

Prime Minister Ali Al Zaidi urged the international community to invest in Iraq during his address to the UN General Assembly in New York on Friday, presenting his key economic and anti-corruption strategies. Delivering his first speech from the UN podium since taking office in May, Mr Al Zaidi outlined his vision for establishing a strong state, modernizing the economy, and transitioning the nation away from years of conflict.

“Here from the United Nations we say to the world: invest with Iraq. Iraq has resources, markets, a good location and the necessary will to build a new economy,” he stated. Mr Al Zaidi explained that Iraq aims to expand energy connections with Turkey, Jordan and Syria to help mitigate the challenges posed by the Strait of Hormuz bottleneck.

Expressing concern over shipping blockades in the Middle East and their impact on global energy prices, Mr Al Zaidi noted that authorities are actively working to diversify oil export ports and develop alternative energy corridors linking Iraq, Turkey, Jordan and Syria. These efforts are designed to reach global markets, support energy security, and diversify supply routes. Preliminary discussions have already taken place concerning overland alternatives, including a proposed pipeline connecting Basra in Iraq to the Jordanian port of Aqaba. During his visit to New York, Mr Al Zaidi also held his first meeting with Syrian President Ahmad Al Shara, reiterating his commitment to a diversified and modern economy.

Domestically, Iraqi authorities have conducted numerous arrests as part of an anti-corruption campaign initiated by Mr Al Zaidi, which recently saw two sitting female MPs jailed by an anti-corruption court, despite critics claiming the initiative has slowed down.

Addressing Iraq's regional position, Mr Al Zaidi positioned his country as a potential “bridge for dialogue” and an energy hub, moving past its history as an arena of war. Highlighting the heavy toll of past conflicts involving both US and Iranian pressures, he emphasized a shift toward economic and development cooperation as the US-led coalition prepares to withdraw its remaining forces. “Iraq aspires to exercise its influence and have an impact as an effective economic power in the region and as a bridge for dialogue and co-operation among the peoples of the region,” Mr Al Zaidi concluded.