PM al-Sudani Highlights Energy Expansion, Development Road Jobs, and Economic Reforms in Government Record
Peregraf — Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani highlighted major developments in the energy sector, job creation, and economic reforms while reviewing his government’s performance since taking office in late 2022.
Speaking on Tuesday, Sudani said his government focused on tackling corruption, unemployment, poverty, financial reform, and service delivery amid regional and international challenges.
Energy Sector Expansion
Sudani said Iraq significantly expanded electricity production, increasing output to 29,000 megawatts while strengthening the national grid and developing power plants.
He also highlighted progress in oil and gas investment, stating that gas investment rates rose from 52% in 2022 to 74% in 2026 as Iraq continued efforts to reduce gas flaring.
According to Sudani, Iraq’s oil refining capacity increased from 600,000 barrels per day in 2022 to nearly 1.2 million barrels per day by early 2026.
He added that Baghdad signed contracts with major international energy companies, reflecting what he described as growing international confidence in Iraq’s economy.
Development Road Project and Jobs
Sudani said the Development Road Project had entered the implementation phase of its first stage.
The project, extending more than 1,200 kilometers, is expected to create 100,000 jobs and serve as a regional transport and trade corridor connecting Iraq to international markets.
According to the prime minister, the route is planned to handle 15 million passengers and 22 million tons of trade and transport.
Loans and Youth Support
The Iraqi premier also emphasized support for youth and small enterprises through the Riyada Initiative.
He said tens of thousands of small loans had been distributed to young people to support economic and social development.
Sudani added that Iraq’s unemployment rate declined from 16.5% to 13.5% during his government’s tenure.
Economic and Infrastructure Achievements
Sudani said Iraq attracted investments exceeding $114 billion and resolved more than 3,250 stalled projects out of over 5,300 inherited by his government.
He also pointed to:
* Completion of 22 new hospitals
* Construction of 1,943 new schools
* Launch of 5,430 industrial projects
* Completion of the first phase of Grand Faw Port
* Expansion of sewage and road infrastructure projects
Kurdistan Region Salaries Mentioned
Sudani said the government maintained payment of salaries and operational spending, including salaries for employees in the Kurdistan Region.
Sudani’s remarks come as Iraq prepares for the formation of a new government led by Prime Minister-designate Ali al-Zaidi following parliamentary elections and months of political negotiations.