Iraq's gold reserves rise to more than 17 trillion dinars
The Central Bank of Iraq announced, on Sunday, that it recorded a growth in its gold reserves by 45.1% in the fourth quarter of 2024 compared to the same quarter of the previous year.
The bank stated in a statement today that its gold reserves "increased from 12.29 trillion dinars in the fourth quarter of 2023 to 17.83 trillion dinars for the same quarter in 2024 as a result of the increase in the quantity of gold and gold prices.
The statement added, "This has many benefits, as it enhances economic and financial stability, protects against risks, and is considered an important tool for intervening in the foreign exchange market." link
Chapter Summary: The Dynamics of Freedom of Speech and Political Discourse
Introduction
In the contemporary landscape of global politics and media, the concept of freedom of speech has emerged as a significant pillar of democratic societies.
The speaker, a self-identified global citizen, emphasizes the importance of expressing one’s thoughts without fear of retribution.
This chapter delves into the speaker’s views on political figures, particularly Donald Trump, and the broader implications of international relations, including economic metrics and diplomatic strategies. Key terms such as diplomacy, politics, and economy will be explored to provide a nuanced understanding of the speaker’s arguments.
The Assertion of Freedom of Speech
The speaker begins by asserting a strong belief in the right to express opinions freely, indicating that this is fundamental to their identity as a global citizen.
They stress that their contributions to the economy and job creation surpass those of their detractors, positing that personal experience and success grant them the authority to voice their opinions.
The speaker directly addresses criticisms they face regarding their accent and origin, asserting that legitimacy in speaking about U.S. matters is not limited to native-born citizens.
Perspectives on Political Figures
Central to the discourse is the speaker’s nuanced view of Donald Trump. They describe him as a “good businessman” who operates in his unique manner. However, they highlight the challenges he faces on a global scale, where various nations—including
Europe, Canada, Mexico, China, Russia, and the Middle East—seem to oppose him.
The speaker warns that such opposition can have detrimental effects on diplomacy and international relations, which in turn impacts the U.S. economy.
Economic Concerns
The speaker raises alarm over recent economic indicators, notably stating that the economy has experienced a downturn of minus one percent when it was expected to grow by three to four percent.
This statistic serves as a pivotal point in their argument, illustrating that the current political climate and decisions made by leaders can have direct consequences on economic performance.
The Role of National Leaders
The speaker shares insights on the president of Ukraine, suggesting that, like any leader, he is obligated to protect his country and its interests. This draws parallels to Trump’s role, asserting that every president, including Biden, carries this responsibility.
They critique the notion of leadership by pointing out that while leaders may be labeled as cowards or corrupt, the real test of leadership lies in their ability to safeguard their nations.
The Global Power Dynamic
A significant theme in the speaker’s narrative is the portrayal of Vladimir Putinas a formidable leader, contrasting him with U.S. politicians.
They argue that American leaders may lack the resolve displayed by Putin, especially when it comes to navigating complex geopolitical situations.
The speaker emphasizes the need for mutual respect in political discourse, suggesting that respect is earned through actions rather than merely through titles or positions.
Media Influence and Public Perception
The speaker critiques the media’s role in shaping public opinion, particularly through outlets like Fox News, which they imply may present a biased view of Trump. They warn that constant reinforcement of a singular narrative can lead to a distorted perception of reality.
They encourage viewers to critically assess the information presented to them rather than passively accepting it.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the speaker advocates for an open and honest dialogue about political issues, emphasizing the importance of freedom of speech as a fundamental right. They argue that while it is acceptable to support political figures like Trump, it is equally important to acknowledge and discuss their shortcomings. The implications of their arguments highlight a need for greater transparency and responsibility among leaders, as well as a more engaged and informed citizenry. Ultimately, the speaker’s call for respect and understanding in political discourse underscores the complexities of navigating a diverse and often contentious global landscape.
The Federal Finance will begin funding February salaries for the region’s employees within two days
An informed source revealed, today, Sunday (March 2, 2025), that the Federal Ministry of Finance will begin financing the salaries of Kurdistan Region employees within the next two days.
The source told Baghdad Today, "The lists sent by the regional government have been audited, and the financing of employees' salaries in Kurdistan will begin within the next two days, after all the problems."
He added, "The Federal Ministry of Finance will send 950 billion dinars to finance February salaries, after which the regional government will announce a schedule for disbursing salaries."
Yesterday, Saturday (March 1, 2025), a responsible Kurdish source stated that the Ministry of Finance will send February salaries to the region’s employees in the middle of next week, confirming that there is a problem with the agreement between the region and the center.
It seems that the source expressed his fear to "Baghdad Today", saying, "The regional government did not abide by the terms of the agreement with Baghdad, and this may cause problems with salaries."
Meanwhile, the member of the Kurdistan Justice Party, Ribwar Muhammad Amin, confirmed earlier that the federal banks had expressed their readiness to localize the salaries of Kurdistan employees, presenting the argument to the regional government. link
Article: "Oil Price: Washington pressured Baghdad over Kurdistan oil to curb Iran's exports"
Quote: "The American website 'Oil Press', which specializes in energy affairs, published a report on Friday regarding the resumption of oil pumping from the Kurdistan Region, confirming that Washington pressured Baghdad to do so, in order to reduce Iranian oil
exports."
Article: "Iraqi opposition lobbies in America: Joe Wilson and the Mega campaign as an example - Urgent"
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Quote: "In recent years, Iraqi lobby groups have become active in the United States...These lobbies are divided between supporters of the current Iraqi government and opponents who seek to change the political system in Baghdad..
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Senator Joe Wilson stands out, who recently launched a political campaign called MEGA, targeting what he called 'liberating Iraq from Iran', which sparked widespread controversy in American and Iraqi circles...making Iraq a strongly present issue in American politics, despite the passage of more than two decades since the American invasion."
Sudanese Advisor: Digital currency is a qualitative leap that improves oversight and supports combating money laundering
The financial advisor to the Prime Minister, Mazhar Mohammed Salih, praised, on Saturday, the Central Bank of Iraq’s move towards issuing a digital currency, considering it a qualitative leap that enhances transparency and control over financial flows, improves oversight of capital and foreign transfers, and supports efforts to combat money laundering.
Saleh said in a statement reported by the official news agency, and seen by "Al-Eqtisad News", that "the Central Bank is moving towards issuing a digital currency as a gradual alternative to paper currency," indicating that "this trend represents a qualitative leap in the national digital payments system."
He added, "This step will achieve many benefits, including reducing cash leakage, lowering printing costs, and limiting the circulation of paper currency outside the banking system, in addition to reducing the need to print money repeatedly, which reduces the costs associated with its production and distribution, in addition to enhancing transparency and control over financial flows and the ability to track digital liquidity and spending trends, whether consumption, savings or investment, in addition to improving control over capital and foreign transfers,
and supporting efforts to combat money laundering."
He pointed out that "digital currencies contribute to achieving financial inclusion, especially for groups less integrated into the banking system, which contributes to enhancing economic and social integration."
He stressed that "the transition to digital currency requires a strong technical infrastructure that includes reliable and advanced internet networks and advanced cybersecurity systems to protect data and transactions, in addition to promoting a culture of societal acceptance of digital currencies, starting with government agencies, through their use in collection operations and official transactions."
He explained that "digital cash will maintain its traditional functions as a unit of account, payments and savings, with the possibility of using it online and on smartphones, which will contribute to developing a more stable and efficient financial environment." link
