BAGHDAD, May 17 (MENA) - Arab kings, presidents, and leaders praised the pioneering initiatives proposed by Iraq during the 34th Arab Summit and the 5th Arab Economic and Social Development Summit, hosted by Baghdad.

They affirmed that the Iraqi initiatives form a vital cornerstone for a qualitative shift in joint Arab action and embody the spirit of solidarity and integration among Arab nations.

The leaders expressed appreciation for Iraq’s hosting of both summits and commended the progress made in economic development, as well as Iraq’s active role in supporting Arab causes and promoting cooperation across various fields.

The Baghdad Declaration, issued at the end of the summit, highlighted several Iraqi initiatives, foremost among them the establishment of the Arab Fund to Support Recovery and Reconstruction from the Impacts of Crises.

The Iraqi government announced a $40 million contribution to the fund, with $20 million allocated to humanitarian efforts and reconstruction in Gaza and $20 million to support reconstruction in Lebanon.

Iraq also proposed an initiative to support the Syrian people under the title “The Arab Pledge,” aiming to facilitate a comprehensive political transition in Syria and build a democratic system that guarantees rights and freedoms.

The proposal includes a call to hold an international conference focused on Syria’s reconstruction and the safe, dignified return of refugees and displaced persons.

The Baghdad Declaration welcomed Iraq’s invitation to participate in the Development Road project, a strategic initiative linking Arab countries with global markets to enhance regional economic integration.

Additionally, Iraq announced the launch of a comprehensive Arab Economic Reform Project over the next decade, aiming to build a competitive, integrated Arab economic space, boost public-private partnerships, and consider social justice and environmental sustainability.

Iraq also proposed an initiative to boost grain production in the region through well-designed agricultural and water policies grounded in scientific research and sustainable planning.

Baghdad introduced AI initiatives, including the establishment of a specialized Arab center for artificial intelligence and the launch of a scientific research and advanced technologies initiative.

Iraq also proposed the formation of an Arab alliance to protect water resources, addressing challenges such as water scarcity and climate change, and ensuring the water rights of Arab nations within a framework of Arab national security.

A climate change initiative was announced, with a proposal for creating a center for environmental protection from war remnants to help countries affected by armed conflict with demining and hazardous waste cleanup.

For security and stability, Iraq proposed the establishment of an Arab Center for Counterterrorism and the Prevention of Violent Extremism, headquartered in Baghdad, with necessary funding to support its launch.

A proposal was also made for an Arab Joint Security Coordination Room to unify regional security strategies, along with plans for two additional centers focused on combating drugs and organized crime, in response to the urgent need to bolster Arab states’ capacities in fighting cross-border threats.

Further, Iraq recommended enhanced cooperation with the Middle East and North Africa Financial Action Task Force (MENAFATF) to combat money laundering, terrorist financing, and illicit financial activities.

In cultural and social domains, Iraq called for the establishment of an Arab Council for Popular and Cultural Communication, aimed at fostering understanding among Arab peoples and strengthening fraternal ties.

Iraq also proposed a pan-Arab initiative to provide safe havens for those affected by disasters and conflicts, as well as to bolster housing security in affected countries by launching a fund to support housing and reconstruction projects in disaster-stricken areas. (MENA)

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