Iraqi President: Iraq Will Emerge as a Responsible Global Actor

Iraqi Presidency

Iraqi President Abdullatif Jamal Rashid.

Iraqi President Abdullatif Rashid addressed the Delphi Forum Slemani on Monday, 19 May 2025, underscoring that the region is experiencing a period of significant complexity. He emphasised that no nation can afford to remain a passive observer, declaring: “Iraq will not only recover and rebuild, but will emerge as a responsible and relevant actor on the global stage.”

President Rashid described the hosting of the forum in Sulaymaniyah as a “notable milestone,” reflecting the increasing recognition of both Iraq’s and Kurdistan’s growing importance at a critical point in regional and international affairs.

Calling the forum a “vital” platform, he stated that it offers an opportunity to exchange ideas, explore solutions, and forge partnerships.

Addressing the shifting dynamics of the region, he said: “We are living in complex times – from changing alliances to emerging economic models, from the pressing need for climate action to persistent security threats.”

President Rashid reaffirmed Iraq’s commitment to reform and stated that the country is focused on shaping a future based on cooperation rather than conflict.

“Our priorities are clear: to enhance public services, modernise infrastructure, and bring about real change in the everyday lives of Iraqi citizens,” he noted.

He also stressed the importance of economic diversification, underlining Iraq’s determination to reduce reliance on oil or any single sector. Additionally, he said the country is taking serious measures to address climate change, protect natural resources, and manage water resources responsibly.

On the issue of global trade, President Rashid advocated for a fair and balanced international system.

Touching on migration, he emphasised that it cannot be addressed solely through border security. “Addressing irregular migration means tackling the root causes that force people to leave their homes, not just securing borders,” he said.

The president also reiterated Iraq’s ongoing commitment to combat terrorism, vowing to confront extremism “in all its forms and manifestations.”

In conclusion, President Rashid asserted that the challenges facing Iraq—be they economic, environmental, or security-related—are shared global challenges, which demand coordinated international responses.

The Delphi Forum Slemani kicked-off in Sulaymaniyah on Sunday, 18 May 2025, marking the forum’s first edition in the city. The event will conclude on Monday, 19 May 2025.

The forum-internationally recognised as a vital platform for policy dialogue, regional development, and investment promotion- addresses key issues such as security, sustainable energy, economic diversification, and innovation.

Hosting the forum in Sulaymaniyah for the first time represents a strategic initiative to enhance international engagement with a special focus on the Middle East. The event is held under the oversight of Qubad Talabani, the Kurdistan Region’s Deputy Prime Minister, and is supervised by the Greek Ministry of Foreign Affairs.



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