Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Participates in 3rd Voice of Global South Summit and Emphasizes Iraq’s Role in Promoting Sustainability

Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Mr. Fuad Hussein participated virtually in the third “Voice Global South Summit” which was held in India under the theme of “An Empowered Global South for a Sustainable Future”, on 17 August 2024. 

In his speech during the summit Minister Fuad Hussein expressed his sincere appreciation to the Government of India for hosting this important summit, extending his special thanks to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and the Indian Minister of External Affairs, Dr. S. Jaishankar.

The Minister stressed that Iraq is an integral part of the Global South, and has a firm commitment to a shared vision for a sustainable and prosperous future for all. He added: “We meet today at the third Voice Global South Summit to address our common challenges. 

Additionally he stressed the importance of collective action with developed countries to address vital issues such as climate change, energy security, and sustainable development.

Minister Hussein explained that Iraq plays a pivotal role in ensuring global energy security, noting the country’s commitment to diversify energy sources and expand its export capacities to meet the growing global demand, as well as he called on international partners to cooperate in building a sustainable energy future for all.

Regarding climate change, the Minister affirmed that Iraq is committed to global actions to confront this phenomenon, including implementing policies to support the use of electric vehicles and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. He also referred to Iraq’s initiative to plant five million trees as a step towards creating a large carbon reservoir.

Additionally Minister Fuad Hussein touched on the security challenges facing the world, especially in light of the destabilization of the international system, expressing Iraq’s concern about the unjustified Israeli bombing of the Gaza Strip, and calling on the international community to support the efforts to enhance security and peace in the region. As well the Minister discussed the importance of transboundary water resources for Iraq, emphasizing Iraq’s diplomatic exerted efforts to enhance cooperation in this regard, including joining the United Nations Water Convention.

The Minister concluded his speech by referring to the Development Road initiative launched by Iraq, which aims to enhance regional and global economic integration by establishing a trade corridor linking the Gulf region to Turkey, opening the door to new economic opportunities and enhancing trade within and outside the region.

It is worth recalling that India is organizing the third Voice of Global South Summit, which is being held virtually with the participation of several countries, including Iraq, Cuba, Brunei, Lesotho, Malaysia, Maldives, Nauru, Panama, Papua New Guinea, Solomon Islands, Tajikistan, Tuvalu, Laos, Cambodia, and Turkmenistan.

This summit is being held with the participation of a number of heads of state and government and foreign ministers, as it discusses the challenges posed by global developments and ways to create a more inclusive, representative and advanced global system. The summit also addresses development priorities and related solutions, as well as food security issues.