The official spokesman for the government, Basim Al-Awadi, confirmed on Saturday that Iraq played a major role in the ceasefire in Lebanon and Gaza, indicating that Iraq pledged to participate in the reconstruction of both.
"Iraq played a major role in the ceasefire in Lebanon and Gaza. The Palestinian issue is present in all of PM Muhammed S. Al-Sudani's foreign discussions," said Al-Awadi in a statement to the Iraqi News Agency - INA.
Al-Awadi confirmed that "Iraq pledged to participate in the reconstruction of Gaza and Lebanon, and it was also one of the first countries to provide aid to Gaza directly and to the West Bank."
"The Prime Minister proposed announcing the formation of an Arab-Islamic fund in which Arab and Islamic countries would provide aid as much as they could, and a specific Arab-Islamic committee would be formed to begin resending funds according to a planned and studied program," he explained.
The statement added that "at the beginning of the meeting, Hussein offered his congratulations to Rubinstein on the occasion of assuming his new duties," stressing "the depth of Iraqi-US relations," and expressing at the same time "Iraq's aspiration to enhance bilateral cooperation under the next US administration."
During the meeting, they discussed, in-depth, bilateral relations between the two countries, in addition to reviewing regional conditions, especially the situation in Syria.
The two sides also touched on "current political developments and the pivotal role played by Western countries, most notably the US, in the course of events inside Syria."
The statement added, "The two parties also discussed the outcomes of the Riyadh Conference on Syria, which witnessed the participation of the US Undersecretary of State," stressing "the importance of following up on the recommendations that emerged from the conference."
The Foreign Minister stressed "the importance of strengthening cooperation between Iraq and the US, in a way that serves common interests and contributes to achieving regional stability."
Chapter Summary: The Implementation of the ASYCUDA System in Iraq’s Customs Administration
Introduction
This chapter explores the significance of the ASYCUDA (Automated System for Customs Data) system in the context of the Iraqi Customs Administration, as emphasized by Minister for Financial Affairs Mzar Mohammad Sali. The ASYCUDA system, developed by the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) since the 1980s, is pivotal in modernizing customs operations worldwide. This system utilizes modern digital technology to streamline and enhance customs procedures, which is crucial for facilitating international trade and improving economic efficiency. The adoption of the second generation of ASYCUDA, which is based on cloud technology, marks a significant step towards the comprehensive automation of customs operations in Iraq, aiming to reduce delays at border crossings and enhance the country’s overall economic landscape.
The Role of ASYCUDA in Enhancing Customs Operations
Automation of Customs Functions: The implementation of ASYCUDA aims to provide comprehensive automation of customs operations, which includes functions such as data recording, fee assessment, customs clearance, and records management.
Reduction of Delays: By simplifying customs procedures, ASYCUDA is designed to reduce administrative delays at border crossings, thereby facilitating smoother international trade flows.
Cloud Technology Utilization: The second generation of ASYCUDA employs cloud technology to enhance accessibility and efficiency in customs operations, ensuring real-time data management and processing.
Economic Implications of ASYCUDA
Enhancing Non-Oil Revenues: The Iraqi government aims to increase non-oil revenues to constitute 20% of total public revenues. Implementing ASYCUDA aligns with this goal by improving the efficiency of customs operations and enhancing revenue collection.
Support from the United Nations: Joint cooperation with the UN is crucial in enhancing customs control and collection systems. This partnership aims to implement best digital practices in managing imports and exports.
Achievements and Infrastructure Development
Implementation Status: The General Authority of Customs and the Board of Reports Authority have successfully completed the implementation of the ASYCUDA system within the past year.
Digital Infrastructure: A high-quality digital infrastructure has been established to support and develop customs work, with an aim to upgrade and refine operations by 2025.
Benefits of ASYCUDA in Combating Corruption and Enhancing Transparency
Reduction of Corruption: The full automation of customs processes through ASYCUDA minimizes human interaction, which is a significant factor in reducing opportunities for corruption. Enhanced transparency is achieved as automated systems limit discretionary powers.
Efficiency and Accountability: The shift to automated customs operations increases overall efficiency, ultimately leading to better accountability in customs management.
Improving International Trade and Border Security
Accelerated Customs Clearance: ASYCUDA enhances international trade by expediting the customs clearance process, thereby removing administrative hurdles that often impede trade.
Comprehensive Database: The system provides a robust database conducive to informed economic and trade policymaking, allowing for better strategic planning and decision-making.
Border Security Enhancements: ASYCUDA plays a critical role in improving border security by enabling more accurate tracking and inspection of shipments. This capability is essential in combating smuggling and other illegal activities.
Regional Context and Collaboration
Integration with Arab Countries: Iraq’s adoption of the ASYCUDA system aligns it with other Arab nations such as Jordan, the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Egypt, who have also implemented this system at their customs ports in an integrated manner. This regional collaboration is significant for establishing standardized customs practices across borders.
Conclusion
The implementation of the ASYCUDA system within Iraq’s Customs Administration represents a transformative approach to modernizing customs operations and enhancing international trade. By leveraging cloud technology and focusing on automation, Iraq aims to reduce delays, combat corruption, and improve revenue collection while also ensuring better border security. The collaboration with the UN and alignment with regional practices further emphasize the importance of ASYCUDA in achieving economic stability and growth. As Iraq continues to advance its customs capabilities, the implications for trade facilitation and economic development are profound, paving the way for a more integrated and efficient trading environment.
In summary, the ASYCUDA system acts as a critical tool not just for facilitating trade but also for safeguarding national interests, ultimately contributing to Iraq’s broader economic objectives.
