Iraq’s Minister of Finance, Taif Sami Mohammed, joined the Deputy Governor of the Central Bank of Iraq (CBI) and a delegation at the annual meetings of the World Bank Group and the International Monetary Fund (IMF). The meetings took place in Washington. They focused on global economic challenges, financial stability, and sustainable development.
During the event, Minister Sami met with World Bank Executive Director Abdulaziz Al-Mulla. They discussed Iraq’s economic situation and the Bank’s support for the reform agenda. Key topics included revenue enhancement, expenditure control, digitalisation, and infrastructure and energy projects.
Additionally, she also met Ricardo, Vice President for Private Sector Affairs. They reviewed International Finance Corporation (IFC) projects in Iraq. These include Baghdad International Airport, Basra Gas Company’s gas processing, and trade finance programs. They explored ways to remove investment barriers and strengthen the private sector, particularly in agriculture and industry.
Therefore, the delegation held a high-level session with Ousmane Dione, World Bank Vice President for the Middle East and North Africa. They reviewed Iraq’s projects, including railways, highways, and upcoming infrastructure and human capital initiatives. They agreed to align Iraq’s priorities with the Bank’s 2026 support plan and resolve payment delays from the 2025 budget shortfall.
In a separate session chaired by IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva, Minister Sami presented Iraq’s “Vision 2050.” She outlined plans to diversify the economy, reduce oil dependency, modernise tax and customs systems, and expand digital transformation.
The meetings also focused on Iraq’s collaboration with the IMF. The goal is to improve fiscal management, unify the treasury account, and provide technical support for customs, taxation, and social security reform.
Moreover, Minister Sami discussed economic growth prospects with Jihad Azour, Director of the IMF’s Middle East and Central Asia Department. He reaffirmed the IMF’s commitment to supporting Iraq’s financial and monetary reforms.
These annual meetings gather finance ministers, central bank governors, private sector leaders, and civil society representatives. They aim to address economic growth, poverty reduction, and sustainable development worldwide.