The World Bank is Stepping Up It's Support for Iraq - June 2025
In a strategic push to rebuild and modernize Iraq, the World Bank is increasing its support for the country's substantial infrastructure development needs.
A high-level delegation from the World Bank recently met with Iraqi officials in Baghdad to identify top priorities and coordinate efforts to accelerate key national projects.
The meeting brought together Iraq's Minister of Planning, Dr. Mohammed Tamim, and World Bank Country Director for the Middle East, Jean-Christophe Carret, along with representatives from multiple ministries. Discussions centered on how to best align the World Bank's financial and technical support with Iraq's long-term development goals, particularly in key sectors such as transportation, energy, water, and public services.
Dr. Tamim emphasized the urgency of rebuilding Iraq's worn-down infrastructure, much of it damaged by decades of war, sanctions, and neglect. He stressed that the Iraqi government is committed to using international partnerships to ensure that its infrastructure plans are both efficient and sustainable.
Carret, representing the World Bank, reaffirmed the institution's commitment to supporting Iraq's economic growth through infrastructure investments that create jobs, stimulate economic activity, and enhance the daily lives of Iraqi citizens. He highlighted the importance of governance, transparency, and prioritization in managing these projects.
A key outcome of the meeting was the agreement to form a joint working group between Iraqi ministries and World Bank experts. This team will coordinate project selection, funding mechanisms, and implementation timelines to ensure seamless project execution. The focus will be on high-impact projects, particularly those that can unlock private sector investment and improve public service delivery.
With Iraq's economy slowly stabilizing and oil revenues increasing, both sides agreed that now is the time to fast-track strategic infrastructure improvements that will support long-term development. The World Bank pledged continued support not just in funding, but also in technical guidance and institutional reform.
This collaboration marks a significant step in Iraq's journey toward rebuilding its foundational services and laying the groundwork for future prosperity.
