Shafaq News- Baghdad (Updated at 9:18)
Iraq must avoid fallout from US sanctions on other countries as it faces a difficult financial situation that “cannot tolerate risk,” the ruling State Administration Coalition said on Saturday.
Read more: After Washington’s warning: What’s next for Baghdad–Tehran economic ties?
The coalition, which includes Sunni, Shia, and Kurdish parties, agreed to begin talks next week with political blocs entitled to the remaining cabinet posts. Nine of 23 ministries remain without permanent ministers, including Defense, Interior, Planning, and Higher Education.
The meeting also covered the draft oil and gas law ahead of its referral to parliament, Iraq’s financial and investment situation, private-sector development, new-city projects, and plans to distribute one million residential land plots. Members also discussed payments owed to farmers and contractors, regional and international developments, and efforts to counter sectarian rhetoric and strengthen national unity and social peace.
It further reviewed anti-corruption and institutional reform measures, including the draft Federal Internal Oversight Commission law and legislation needed to implement the government program.
Read more: Iraq’s Dawn Crackdown spreads through state institutions
Prime Minister Ali Al-Zaidi launched the Dawn Crackdown on June 28. By August 9, Shafaq News had documented at least 210 arrests across state institutions.
Read more: Al-Zaidi at 100 days: Iraq's toughest tests still ahead