[Published here March 29, 2021]
Suitcases of spreadsheets are wheeled into her office, as infuriated MPs storm out. Her unmistakeable voice booms down the finance ministry hallways.
Meet Taif al-Sami, Iraq’s budget baroness.
Continue readingbudget
After tough 2020, Iraq eyes more economic pain ahead | AFP
[Published here December 17, 2020]
A year of economic agony for pandemic-hit and oil-reliant Iraq is drawing to a close, but a draft 2021 budget involving a hefty currency devaluation could bring more pain for citizens.
Continue readingAs new Iraq PM takes helm, public salaries on chopping block | AFP
[Published here on May 7, 2020]
Baghdad (AFP) – With its financial outlook darkening by the day, Iraq is considering slashing its massive public payroll — an unpopular move likely to renew protests as a new government takes the helm.
Iraq gets new government amid fiscal, coronavirus crises | AFP
[Published here on May 6, 2020]
Baghdad (AFP) – Mustafa Kadhemi took office as Iraq’s premier early Thursday after breaking months of political deadlock, taking the reins amid a staggering economic crisis, a health pandemic and the spectre of renewed protests.
Could Baghdad-Erbil talks end Iraq’s protracted oil dispute?
[Published here on July 29, 2019]
BAGHDAD: Iraq’s federal authorities and the cash-strapped Kurdish regional government have relaunched talks over longstanding oil and budget disputes, but observers are skeptical they will reach a genuine diplomatic reset. Here are a few questions and answers to clarify the complex issue.
Despite full reservoirs, Iraq water woes far from over | AFP
[Published here May 1, 2019]
Al-Mashahada (Iraq) (AFP) – After plentiful winter rains, Iraq is heading into summer with overflowing reservoirs and lush marshes. But don’t be fooled, observers warn: its water woes and related protests are not over.
Iraq parliament approves 2019 budget, one of largest ever | AFP
[Published here January 24, 2019]
Baghdad (AFP) – Iraqi lawmakers on Thursday approved the government’s 2019 budget, which at $111.8 billion is one of the largest ever for the oil-rich country.
MAYA GEBEILY 