PM Sudani affirms Iraq’s commitment to sustainability during UNGA

ERBIL, Kurdistan Region - As part of the 79th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia' al-Sudani on Sunday emphasized Baghdad’s steps towards achieving sustainable development and his government’s long-term plans for strategic reforms.

“Development and sustainable growth in all areas cannot happen when we are under the threat of war in the area that threatens global peace,” Sudani said during a speech at the UN. “Therefore, it is a responsibility to work to stop animosity and war.”

The annual gathering of world leaders comes as international conflicts are surging, amid a global struggle to meet emission reduction goals to combat climate change.
 
“We are confident that our cooperation will contribute to a better future that is more sustainable for everyone,” Sudani added.

During his visit to New York, the prime minister will have meetings and bilateral talks with world leaders, presidents, and UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, his office said in a statement.

On Sunday, Sudani and his delegation participated in the Summit of the Future. During the summit that continues through Monday, world leaders will adopt a pact covering peace and security, sustainable development, climate change, digital cooperation, and human rights.

The theme for this year’s UNGA is "Leaving no one behind: acting together for the advancement of peace, sustainable development and human dignity for present and future generations.”