[Reply to Fnu Lnu Redemption Center/DeLaRue post on 5-8-2024]
While the first half of this post may well be true (likely as not), I beg to differ on the last half. It’s COMPLETELY INACCURATE...There is NO SUCH THING AS AN AUTOMATED AUTHENTICATION PROTOCOL FOR THE IQD (per the De La Rue engineers – PERIOD). They don’t own that division anymore. It’s a group well known in the US as Cash Systems...
Iraq is worth far more than 16 trillion dollars and there is far less than 80 trillion in circulation...To espouse such inciting commentary [against this]...negates everything Dr. Shabibi has stated and everything the CBI and GOI have stated. The Dinar was worth $3.22 pre-sanctions and at that time all they had was oil at $32 dollars a barrel...
Fnu Lnu
Article quote: "Al-Kadhimi indicated that increasing the budget’s overall amount, from 199 trillion Iraqi dinars (nearly $152 billion) to 228 trillion Iraqi dinars (approximately $174.04 billion), resulted in a rise in the deficit, revealing that the budget is still being discussed in the Council of Ministers and would likely be presented to the Iraqi Parliament next month.
" It would logically follow that a revaluation would be likely before next month's USA confab.
[Response to Pimpy's HCL non-revenue sharing post from 3-31-2024 below]
The notion of revenue-sharing is nothing new in the Middle East. Bruni and Kuwait both do it...Revenue Watch Middle East Director Yahia Said recently returned from several months in Iraq working on the International Compact with the UN...This USIPeace Briefing summarizes the discussion. Many Iraqi citizens look to the law for what it can contribute to reconciliation, security, and welfare. The three parts of the agreement will deal with the issues of 1) revenue sharing; 2) restructuring of the ministry of oil; and 3) establishing the Iraqi National Oil Company (INOC).
It is quite clear that the HCL has intentions to codify the issue of welfare (not for government) and the number 1 issue is REVENUE SHARING. To be more specific; Section 1314 of the FY2007 Supplemental Appropriations Act [P.L.110-28] specifically identified the enactment and implementation of legislation “to ensure the equitabledistribution of hydrocarbon resources of the people of Iraq without regard to the sect or ethnicity of recipients” and “to ensure that the energy resources of Iraq benefit Sunni Arabs, Shia Arabs, Kurds, and other Iraqi citizens in an equitable manner” as benchmarks .
After two decades of oversight, why did Iraq request terminating UNAMI?
Shafaq News / The Iraqi government has formally requested the United Nations to conclude its political Mission in the country by the end of 2025, marking over 20 years of its involvement.
This request, communicated to the United Nations Security Council, emphasized the government's stance that the Mission is deemed unnecessary in light of substantial advancements toward stability.
Nevertheless, amidst this decision, concerns persist among critics regarding the stability of Iraq's emerging democracy. Ongoing internal conflicts and the presence of armed political factions contribute to these apprehensions.
Diplomats and UN officials also voice concerns regarding human rights and accountability in a country consistently ranked among the most corrupt globally.
UNAMI: A Brief Overview
Established in 2003 under United Nations Security Council Resolution 1500, at the request of the Iraqi government, the UN Assistance Mission for Iraq (UNAMI) role expanded significantly in 2007 under Resolution 1770.
At the outset of its operations in Iraq, the Mission faced a tragic incident in August 2003 when a terrorist bombing targeted its headquarters at Al-Qanat Hotel in Baghdad.
The attack destroyed the hotel, claiming the lives of 23 staff members, including the Special Representative of the Secretary-General for the United Nations, Sergio Vieira de Mello.
The Mission, headquartered in Baghdad's heavily fortified Green Zone, is also tasked with collaborating with government partners and civil society to coordinate the humanitarian and development initiatives of UN Agencies, Funds, and Programmes.
While UNAMI doesn't directly implement humanitarian and development programs, it amplifies the importance of these issues in Iraq. It facilitates connections between Iraqi partners, including the Government and civil society organizations, and the technical expertise offered by the UN entities in Iraq. The UN Iraq explained.
UNAMI is led by the Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General (SRSG) for Iraq, Jeanine Hennis-Plassheart.
As of now, there are about 648 personnel working for the Mission in Iraq, including 251 international staff and 397 national staff. According to the UN, Iraq.
Requests Conclusion of UNAMI in Iraq
On May 10, 2024, Iraqi media outlets released the text of Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani's formal request to United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres to conclude the UNAMI operations permanently.
Al-Sudani emphasized that "the justifications for the presence of a political mission in Iraq are no longer applicable, especially after over 20 years of democratic transition and overcoming significant and diverse challenges," affirming that the country wants to deepen cooperation with other UN organizations.
It is noteworthy that UNAMI addressed Al-Sudani on April 29, 2024, in a report regarding the country's current situation and persistent threats. This report was in response to the Iraqi government's request to initiate the gradual downsizing of the UN mission, culminating in its termination within two years.
This decision was based on extensive consultations, including with Kuwait, and did not rule out the establishment of an "Alternative Regional Hub" in the Gulf within this context.
Based on this report, PM Al-Sudani formally requested that UNAMI end its work by no later than May 2025 and begin to reduce its mandate, focusing solely on humanitarian and developmental issues starting from May 2024.
On February 16, 2024, Al-Sudani, during his meeting with Volker Perthes, the Assistant Secretary-General for Strategic Review of UNAMI's work in Iraq, affirmed that internal security and stability made it possible to terminate the political role of UNAMI in Iraq.
Al-Sudani pointed to "the progress made in establishing internal security and stability, which made it possible to end the political role of UNAMI in Iraq," affirming that "the activities and joint programs of the UN organization can continue by transferring its activities to specialized organizations."
UNAMI's Case For Continuing'
United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres noted in his 30-page report that he had tasked Volker Perthes with preparing a comprehensive assessment of the Mission's work and presenting it to the Security Council.
Among the key points highlighted in the report is that three threats continue to confront Iraq: institutional fragility, the proliferation of armed entities, and the potential resurgence of ISIS or new terrorism. The report acknowledged that "despite recent evidence of the Iraqi government's ability to manage crises with less violence, these threats persist."
Furthermore, the report indicated that "Kurdish and Sunni parties" still lack confidence in state institutions and are seeking "external guarantees" for their rights, viewing UNAMI as a "guarantor."
The report emphasized the necessity for UNAMI to continue providing technical support for elections and human rights, describing it as "crucial" and offering advice on resolving national conflicts and crisis management.
The Mission reiterated that if Iraqi leadership deems it no longer needs UNAMI's assistance, "it must be prepared to take control."
Furthermore, researchers argue that the legal and human rights situation in Iraq is far from optimal. They point to human rights violations during the war against ISIS, including arbitrary arrests and hasty trials of alleged ISIS members without sufficient evidence.
Despite these statements, Iraqis are divided regarding the Mission.
Iraqis Support The Termination
Various perspectives intersect regarding the United Nations operations in Iraq. Some observers argue that the UN cannot be exempted from responsibility, noting that significant delays and limited outcomes characterize its missions in the region compared to the substantial operational budgets they consume.
Others accuse these missions of engaging in a bureaucratic process that prolongs conflicts and issues, serving the interests of specific stakeholders, as they allege.
On another note, researchers point out that the legal and human rights situation in Iraq is far from ideal. The human rights violations during the war against ISIS, including actions by armed groups against civilians and the arbitrary arrests of many on suspicion of collaboration, extend to swift trials of those accused of ISIS affiliation, sometimes lacking sufficient evidence for conviction.
The spokesperson for the Iraqi government, Basim Al-Awadi, stated to Shafaq News Agency that "The mission of the UNAMI mandate is to prioritize providing advice, support, and assistance to the Iraqi government and people in enhancing comprehensive political dialogue, national reconciliation, and societal harmony such as assisting in the electoral process, enhancing human rights protection, and judicial and legal reforms."
He emphasized that "Iraq today is a sovereign country gradually recovering from crises, managing its political affairs with balance and national interests, and fostering cooperation, friendship, and partnership with various countries worldwide through official Iraqi government institutions. It has even assumed its unique role in mitigating regional disputes and acting as a capable mediator to bridge differences."
"The government has managed to resolve border issues with Turkiye and Iran based on official agreements, and Iraqi-Arab relations continue to evolve. This includes relations with Kuwait or what remains of their past issues."
Regarding internal affairs, Al-Awadi asserted that "The government is actively addressing important files, including the Kurdistan Region relationship file or the Kirkuk file, where the government has taken significant steps not achieved since 2005, along with other internal issues."
"Iraq values the role of UNAMI over the past two decades, where they have made substantial sacrifices in their work. There are important issues for which Iraq will seek technical support from the United Nations, such as the electoral file. However, this will be part of a specific mission that ends with each election. Additionally, specialized UN agencies will continue their work, including the Human Rights Organization and UNDP, and Iraq's request does not conflict with the continued work of these organizations, as it primarily relates to the political aspect." He explained.
"The time has come for Iraq to emerge from the 'intensive care' room after two decades of change since 2003. It isn't easy to believe that we are not in a stage of political maturity. Therefore, permanent assistance is necessary in a paternalistic manner capable of managing dialogue among Iraqis themselves or with their neighbors on their behalf or providing assistance to them."
In turn, Abbas Al-Jubouri, a member of the Foreign Relations Committee in the Iraqi Parliament, commended the decision to end the UNAMI mission, considering it "a step in the right direction towards achieving full sovereignty for Iraq."
Al-Jubouri added to Shafaq News Agency, "After more than 20 years, Iraq can stand on its own feet and no longer needs guardianship, another opinion, or a mediator between it and the United Nations."
He confirmed that "The decision will not affect the relationship with any country but will make Iraq feel more freedom to take its natural size and extension in dealing with the world while preserving its independence and sovereignty. Iraq no longer needs intermediaries."
Allegations of "corruption" within UNAMI
The Guardian revealed shocking suspicions of corruption within Iraq's United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in a report published on January 23 last year. The report affirmed that the United Nations had fostered a culture of bribery that had permeated Iraqi society since the overthrow of Saddam Hussein in 2003.
According to the British newspaper, "UN employees in Iraq are demanding bribes in exchange for assisting businessmen in winning contracts for reconstruction projects in the country."
The Guardian found that employees of the UNDP "demanded bribes amounting to 15% of the contract value," according to three employees and four contractors.
In return, the employee helps the contractor navigate the complex bidding system for the UNDP to ensure the audit process is passed. One contractor, whose identity was not disclosed by The Guardian, said that UNDP employees "contacted them demanding bribes."
This led UNAMI to clarify what it termed "misleading information," suggesting that UN Envoy Jeanine Hennis-Plasschaert left the country due to corruption issues.
In a statement, the Mission said, "UNAMI confirms that the departure of the Special Representative of the Secretary-General in May is consistent with the practices followed within the United Nations, including the usual rotation of senior UN officials."
The statement added, "Regarding The Guardian's report on allegations of corruption, UNDP stated on January 23, 2024. Furthermore, we would like to confirm that UNAMI and UNDP have different administrative and financial structures."
“With regard to The Guardian’s report about allegations of corruption, UNDP has issued a statement on 23 January 2024. Furthermore, we would like to underscore that UNAMI and UNDP have different governance and financial structures.” UNAMI said.
The budget have to be approved by the parliament...Sudani cannot make a decision by himself...The budget doesn't have to be approved by parliament...it's not true. They have pass by the parliament and parliament have to vote for it.
Any changes on that budget the parliament have to agree into it and have to vote for it and have to sign it and send it to Sudani and then the president of Iraq...It is active yes but not completely active. Any changes have to be approved by the parliament of Iraq.
People calling me since last Thursday asking me, 'We hearing the exchange rate will change on Monday?'
...I didn't see anything about Monday. I see really good news. I believe with all this going on they should go for it. I think they're ready. I don't know when or why not. Some people saying Monday...before the end of the month...May... July. It's all prediction. I wish it could happen now. Today...Let's watch it...
People calling me since last Thursday asking me, 'We hearing the exchange rate will change on Monday?' ...I didn't see anything about Monday. I see really good news. I believe with all this going on they should go for it. I think they're ready. I don't know when or why not. Some people saying Monday...before the end of the month...May... July. It's all prediction. I wish it could happen now. Today...Let's watch it...
Today I was watching the news. I was watching Sudani in the street and it got me all excited. Got me happy. It's been a while we didn't see a leader who cares about the people, who cares about the country...He was walking in the street at least for 2 hours...It's great to see that. He give confidence. It gives hope. I hope he continues like that...It's amazing what's going on in Iraq. I love it.
This visit to United States it was really good. All this contracts they signed...all these people want to go to Iraq to do business, start businesses. It's great. Now they have the ball in their hands so we see what they're going to do with it. They're going to score or pass on the side again?
Iraq unveils strategic plan to end gas import dependency by 2027
Shafaq News/ On Monday, the Parliamentary Oil and Gas Committee member, Alaa Al-Haidari, unveiled a strategic timeline to resolve Iraq's gas import dependency permanently.
Al-Haidari told Shafaq News Agency that "the sixth licensing round, recently announced by the Ministry of Oil, encompasses exploration blocks for ramping up natural gas extraction." This initiative is "pivotal in realizing self-sufficiency in gas production within the next few years."
Currently, Iraq spends approximately $5 billion annually on gas imports to fuel its power stations, straining the national budget.
Al-Haidari explained that the latest licensing rounds strategically cover gas fields from southern to northern Iraq, "positioning the nation to achieve self-reliance in locally sourced gas by 2027, thereby ending gas import reliance."
On Saturday, Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani launched the fifth supplementary round and full sixth round of oil and gas exploration licenses encompassing 29 projects spread across 12 governorates.
The Iraqi government anticipates substantial outcomes from these projects, aiming to achieve a daily production capacity of over 3,459 million standard cubic feet of gas and more than one million barrels of oil.
Deputy Prime Minister for Energy Affairs and Oil Minister Hayan Abdulghani expressed optimism regarding Iraq's oil reserves, "aiming to surpass 160 billion barrels, a testament to the country's vast energy potential."
According to OPEC's annual report, Iraq has the fourth-largest proven crude oil reserves, trailing only Venezuela, Saudi Arabia, and Iran globally. Additionally, Iraq possesses major natural gas reserves of 132 trillion cubic feet.
During the launch ceremony, Al-Sudani emphasized Iraq's role as a "challenging player in the energy and oil wealth equation in the region and the world," highlighting the Ministry of Oil's commitment to halt associated gas flaring within five years.
The prime minister outlined a comprehensive approach that includes converting oil production into value-added industries like petrochemicals and refineries, aiming to achieve a 40% conversion rate within the next decade. This shift underscores Iraq's commitment to economic diversification and sustainable development.
A day after launching the license round, more than 20 companies qualified, including European, Chinese, Arab, and Iraqi groups. However, major American oil companies were absent, even after Al-Sudani met with representatives of American oil companies during his official visit to the United States last month.
The Iraqi Ministry of Oil's spokesperson, Asim Jihad, stated that Chinese companies secured contracts for exploration in five Iraqi oil and gas fields, aiming primarily to increase gas production for domestic use.
A Kurdish-Iraqi company also won two of 29 projects spread across central, southern, and western Iraq. This round also included, for the first time, an offshore exploration zone in the Gulf waters.
Zhenhua, a Chinese company, secured the investment rights for the Abu Khema field near the Iraqi-Syrian border in Muthanna governorate. This came after competing with the Geo Jade Chinese company.
The Abu Khema field, spanning 294 square kilometers in al-Muthanna, holds significant oil and associated gas reserves.
Jihad also mentioned the success of Antonoil, another Chinese company, in securing the investment rights for the Abu Al-Zafria field (368 square kilometers) in Wasit governorate, which contains two drilled wells with substantial oil reserves. This company was the sole bidder for this project.
Additionally, Jihad highlighted the winning of Chinese Sinopec in acquiring the rights for the Sumar area in Muthanna.
The Sumar area, extending over approximately 1,773 square kilometers, encompasses major reservoirs like the Omar, Zubair, Yamama, and Najma within the governorate.
The expected gas production from this licensing round equals 200% of Iraq's current gas imports from Iran, which amounts to 1,700 million cubic meters per day.
On my own behalf and on behalf of all officers and members of the Iraqi National Security Service, I extend my sincere gratitude to the Prime Minister - Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, Mr. Muhammad Shiaa Al-Sudani).
And to all the stakeholders of the Iraqi government who contributed to preparing the draft law on the Iraqi National Security Service and forwarding it to the House of Representatives for approval, I also extend my sincere thanks to the Iraqi House of Representatives (presidency and members) by. approve the law, which will play an important role in supporting the efforts of the workers of this effective and effective security institution that is appropriate to the nature of the tasks and duties assigned to them, in the effort to achieve security and the protection of our inhabitants. beloved country.
Approving the law of the apparatus is an obligation and a responsibility for all its formations and members, in addition to being an honor for them to exercise their national and heroic role for which they made great sacrifices and for which they gave innocent blood as a sacrifice.
For this country. On this occasion, I would like to congratulate all employees of this agency and renew my promise to the Iraqi people that we will always remain an impregnable prey.
And the fortified shield that preserves its security and stability.