Distinguished guests, Excellencies, diplomats, policy makers, academics and colleagues,
Good morning.
On behalf of Ghadan Risk Management, I would like to express our sincere appreciation to the European Foundation for Dialog and Development (EIDE), our partners, and all participants for joining us today in this important discussion on: “Iraq in the New European Strategy: Opportunities and Challenges”.
We meet today at a time of profound transformations. The international system is evolving rapidly, geopolitical priorities are changing, and the new economic, energy, and security realities are reshaping relations between states and regions. In this changing environment, Iraq is in an increasingly important position, not only as a country facing challenges, but as a country with great opportunities and strategic importance.
For Iraq, engagement with Europe represents more than a diplomatic relationship; It is a partnership that can contribute to economic diversification, institutional development, energy cooperation, technological progress, and regional stability. At the same time, Europe's growing interest in sustainable energy, secure supply chains, migration management, and regional security is creating important areas of mutual benefit and cooperation.
As an organization specializing in risk analysis and strategic assessment, Ghadan believes that effective policy-making begins with an informed dialog. Understanding risk involves not only identifying threats, but also recognizing opportunities, anticipating change, and building resilient partnerships capable of adapting to an increasingly complex world.
No less important is the growing economic and energy dimension in Iraqi-European relations. Iraq has vast energy resources and is increasingly seeking to diversify its economy, attract investment, modernize infrastructure, and accelerate sustainable development. In return, Europe seeks to enhance its energy security, economic resilience, and shift toward cleaner energy sources.
These integrated priorities offer broad opportunities for cooperation in the areas of conventional and renewable energy, infrastructure development, technology transfer, private sector investment and capacity-building. And by strengthening economic and energy partnerships, Iraq and Europe can achieve shared prosperity and contribute to regional and international stability.
Today's seminar provides an opportunity to exchange views, study emerging trends, and explore practical ways to strengthen Iraqi-European relations. We hope that the discussions will result in practical recommendations that support policymakers, enhance cooperation, and contribute to the long-term stability and prosperity of Iraq and its international partners.
In conclusion, I would like to thank all the speakers, participants and partners for their valuable contributions. We look forward to a productive and constructive dialog during the day.
Thank you, and I wish you a successful seminar.
Vice President of the Foundation, Mr. Ahmed Al-Wendi
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