Iraq hosts international dialogue: Development Road Project and regional integration take center stage
The seventh Baghdad International Dialogue Conference opened on Saturday in Baghdad under the theme “Communication for Development and Regional Stability.” The conference brings together decision-makers, academics, and international experts to address critical regional developments and foster constructive dialogue. Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Sudani, Kurdistan Region President Nechirvan Barzani, and UN Special Representative Mohamed Al Hassan were among the prominent attendees.
The two-day conference features sessions focusing on vital regional issues, including the Development Road project, Iraq’s role in regional security following October 7, geopolitical shifts, and economic cooperation. The conference also includes discussions on Syria’s future and the impact of great power competition on Middle East stability.
Kurdistan Region President emphasizes unity and economic integration
In his keynote address, Kurdistan Region President Nechirvan Barzani highlighted the importance of cooperation between Baghdad and Erbil, emphasizing that Iraq’s political and economic stability is a shared national interest. He outlined several fundamental principles necessary for Iraq’s emergence as a regional economic hub, including the establishment of a strong legal framework for investment, constructive political dialogue among Iraq’s various communities, and a robust security strategy.
Barzani stressed that Iraq’s diverse society should be viewed as a source of strength rather than division, particularly in the context of major development initiatives. “The rich diversity of Iraqi society has contributed to its resilience and prosperity,” he stated, emphasizing that development projects should serve as unifying forces across ethnic, religious, and sectarian lines.
Development Road Project takes center stage
A significant focus of the conference is the ambitious Development Road Project, which aims to establish Iraq as a crucial transit corridor between Asia and Europe. The project envisions a comprehensive network of railways, roads, ports, and cities connecting the Grand Fao Port in southern Iraq to Turkey’s border and beyond into Europe.
Kurdistan Region President expressed strong support for the initiative, describing it as a “crucial step towards establishing a more stable and prosperous Iraq.” He emphasized that the project should be viewed as a national initiative that connects all regions and communities throughout Iraq, transcending geographical and sectarian boundaries.
The Development Road Project is expected to compete with Egypt’s Suez Canal by offering a shorter transit route between Asia and Europe, potentially transforming Iraq into a major regional transit hub. According to conference discussions, this strategic initiative could significantly strengthen Iraq’s geopolitical position while supporting regional security and stability.
The conference continues with additional sessions on economic cooperation, regional integration, and the future of energy corridors. The gathering represents an important platform for exchanging visions on regional issues and opening new horizons for constructive dialogue, ultimately aiming to consolidate sustainable development, economic integration, and political stability in the region.