Iraq’s Political-Economic Center has proposed the creation of a dedicated ministry or independent authority focused on artificial intelligence (AI) to support the country’s modernization efforts and capitalize on the rapid global advancements in technology. Wissam Hadmal al-Helou, director of the center, emphasized that an AI-focused institution is crucial for leveraging the transformative potential of AI across sectors that directly impact Iraqi citizens.
In a statement issued on Saturday, Al-Helou outlined the proposal, highlighting the significant role AI could play in education, commerce, industry, and investment sectors, particularly in areas like internet services, telecommunications, tourism, hotel bookings, transport, and electronic banking. The initiative would also make use of data from the upcoming national census, scheduled for October 20-21, to integrate statistics, institutional performance evaluations, and strategic plans.
Al-Helou stressed the importance of collaboration among ministries, state institutions, and the private sector in driving this initiative, suggesting that leveraging qualified personnel from within existing government bodies could help minimize budgetary impact. He also recommended launching a public awareness campaign to educate Iraq’s citizens on the benefits of AI.
Describing AI as a “double-edged sword,” Al-Helou warned of the potential misuse of the technology, such as fraud, piracy, and content manipulation. However, he emphasized its positive applications, particularly in enhancing cybersecurity and modernizing Iraq in line with global technological advancements.
The proposal aligns with a broader national push for technological progress. In July, Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani announced the inclusion of AI in the school curriculum, signaling Iraq’s commitment to responsibly advancing AI. During the Summit of the Future 2024 in New York, Al-Sudani reiterated Iraq’s dedication to promoting AI’s ethical use for the benefit of humanity, calling for international cooperation to equip countries with the tools and capacities necessary for responsible AI adoption.