FRANK26…..3-4-25…….IT’S NO TOP SECRET

KTFA

Tuesday Night Conference Call

FRANK26…..3-4-25…….IT’S NO TOP SECRET

This video is in Frank’s and his team’s opinion only

Frank has stated he will no longer do public videos on the Iraqi dinar UNLESS it is Important, Prudent or Necessary.  

Frank’s team is Walkingstick, Eddie in Iraq and guests

Playback Number: 605-313-5163   PIN: 156996#

What Frank’s suit color’s mean…. FRANKS SUIT COLORS FOR CC'S..... WHITE = NEW INFO…. SILVER = INTEL FROZEN…. RED= HIGH ALERT… PURPLE=GUEST WITH US…. BLUE = AIR FORCE…. BLACK = GROUND/FF’S…. GREEN= MR OR FAB 4 ... GOLD = CHANGE… ORANGE=IMPLEMENTATION

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U4uHOpa-gKs

Some Iraq and Iran News Posted by Clare at KTFA 3-3-2025

KTFA:

Clare:  Counterfeit currency and 'unmarked' gold dealers busted in Iraq

3/3/2025

The National Security Service announced, on Monday, the arrest of promoters of counterfeit currencies and traders of "unmarked" gold in Baghdad and the provinces of Dhi Qar and Diwaniyah.

The agency said in a press statement received by Shafaq News Agency, "Two suspects were arrested in Baghdad in the Al-Baladiyat area, who were promoting counterfeit local and foreign currencies. 3,400 counterfeit US dollars in 100-dollar bills were seized in their possession, in addition to various amounts of counterfeit Iraqi dinars."

He continued, " In Dhi Qar, an illegal commercial complex was raided for selling unmarked gold. It was found that its owner was offering usurious loans to citizens in exchange for seizing Key Cards and Master Cards. 122 cards, a gold piece, four seals, records of the dealers, electronic devices, and an amount of 12 million and 750 thousand dinars were seized."

He pointed out that "in Diwaniyah, the apparatus' detachments were able to overthrow a gang specializing in promoting counterfeit currency, where an ambush was set up for one of the gang members and two suspects (a man and a woman) were arrested red-handed while exchanging counterfeit money, and an amount of 215 thousand counterfeit US dollars was seized in their possession, in addition to the vehicle they were riding in."  LINK

Clare:  Mazhar Saleh: Geopolitical controls push towards shifting to official channels for currency trading

3/3/2025

Mazhar Muhammad Salih, the financial advisor to the Prime Minister, confirmed that the geopolitical controls imposed on informal trade contribute to expanding dealings with official outlets for foreign currency, which contributes to financing foreign trade through the sound international financial system.

He pointed out in his statement to {Euphrates News} that "this shift aims to move away from informal financing from the parallel dollar market intensively, especially with the change in the behavior of small traders in avoiding the parallel market linked to the countries' regional and geopolitical problems." 

Saleh added that "this shift comes in the context of the importance of increasing Iraq's foreign reserves and confronting money smuggling operations, in addition to facilitating external transfer operations through Iraqi banks that deal with international banking correspondents, at an official exchange rate of 1,320 dinars per dollar."

He also stressed that the end of the compliance platform phase adopted by the Central Bank of Iraq in the past two years and the country's entry into a new phase has contributed to providing great flexibility in financial transfers through official channels.   LINK

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Clare:  Oil Minister: A boom in investment in associated gas and raising its rates to 67%

3/3/2025

Deputy Prime Minister for Energy Affairs and Minister of Oil Hayan Abdul-Ghani Al-Sawad received today, Monday, a German delegation that includes representatives of the German Embassy in Baghdad, the German Chamber of Commerce, and companies specialized in various oil and non-oil fields.

Abdul Ghani confirmed, in a statement from his office, a copy of which was received by {Euphrates News}, "Iraq is keen to cooperate with various parties, including German companies, which have a long history in the field of industry and are of high quality and acceptable in Iraq."

He pointed out that "Iraq has made great strides in the field of developing the oil industry, and in particular the optimal investment of gas, as Iraq has achieved, during the life of the government, a great leap in the field of investment in associated gas and raised investment rates from 53% to more than 67%, and Iraq is determined to stop flaring gas and achieve self-sufficiency in 2028."

Abdul Ghani explained that "the ministry has major projects in the gas investment sector, the most important of which is the gas development project in Basra with Total to invest 600 cubic meters in two phases, in addition to other projects in the field of gas field development, as the ministry signed contracts to develop the Mansouriya and Akkas fields, and signed contracts to develop 14 fields and exploration areas, which were offered in the fifth and sixth supplementary licensing rounds."

He added, "The ministry has investment opportunities for gas and oil exploration fields and blocks from the last licensing round that have not been referred. The ministry is working to develop them through investment projects with specialized international companies."

German companies presented a review of their activities and offers to work and cooperate with the Ministry of Oil and its formations, in the fields of exploration, pipelines, laboratories, training, and the provision of equipment, tools, and supplies for oil facilities.  LINK

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Clare:  Iraq-Turkey Pipeline Reopening Pressures Oil Prices, Signals Potential Market Shift

3/3/2025

ERBIL  – Oil prices experienced volatility as news of the anticipated reopening of the Iraq-Turkey pipeline raised expectations of increased supply, despite Iraq’s ongoing commitment to OPEC+ production constraints, according to a report by Robin Mills, CEO at Qamar Energy, published in the Energy This Week newsletter on Monday

Mills noted that crude oil prices ended higher on Monday but dropped on Tuesday following reports that the Iraq-Turkey pipeline is set to resume operations. The country’s deputy oil minister, Bassem Mohammed, recently confirmed that 185,000 barrels per day (bpd) from the Kurdistan Region could be exported after domestic allocations are met. Before its closure in March 2023—following an arbitration ruling—the pipeline transported around 450,000 bpd.

“The market is reacting to the possibility of higher supplies, but Iraq is still constrained by its OPEC+ commitments,” Mills stated. He added that while the pipeline’s reopening may put downward pressure on oil prices in the short term, long-term impacts will depend on Iraq’s ability to balance exports with production limits.

Mills also highlighted the role of U.S. diplomatic efforts in pushing for the pipeline’s resumption. “Washington has been applying pressure on Baghdad to restart exports through the pipeline, which requires an agreement between the federal government and the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) on budget allocations and payments to international oil companies,” he explained.

Meanwhile, British Petroleum (BP) has reinforced its presence in Iraq’s energy sector by finalizing a deal to redevelop the massive Kirkuk oil fields in the country’s north. Mills pointed out that BP, part of the original consortium that discovered Kirkuk’s oil in 1927, estimates the contract area contains up to 20 billion barrels of oil equivalent. “This redevelopment could help Iraq secure a higher production quota within OPEC+,” he noted.

However, BP itself faces challenges, and Mills referenced recent discussions suggesting that a merger with Shell could strengthen the struggling British energy giant.

Iraq’s Energy Sector and Geopolitical Pressures

Iraq, OPEC’s second-largest oil producer, has long grappled with balancing its production ambitions against OPEC+ output agreements. While Baghdad seeks to increase exports to boost revenue, it remains bound by cartel-imposed limits, a tension that has led to periodic disputes.

Mills emphasized that the reopening of the Iraq-Turkey pipeline is particularly significant for the Kurdistan Region, which has faced financial strain since the shutdown. 

The U.S. has been actively working to counter Iran’s influence in Iraq, particularly following President Donald Trump’s return to office. By pressuring Baghdad to resume pipeline exports, Washington aims to strengthen its economic ties with Erbil while reducing Tehran’s leverage over Iraq’s energy sector.

As Iraq navigates these complex political and economic dynamics, the coming months will be crucial in shaping the country’s energy strategy amid shifting global market conditions and geopolitical maneuvering.   LINK

Clare:  Kurdistan Region's Oil Exports Near Resumption

3/3/2025

ERBIL – All preparations for resuming the Kurdistan Region’s oil exports to Turkey’s Ceyhan port have been completed, according to an announcement by a member of the Iraqi Parliament’s Oil and Gas Committee.

The long-awaited move comes after almost two years of suspension, which has cost the Iraqi government billions in revenue losses.

Ali Shaddad al-Faris, an MP from Basra and a member of the Oil and Gas Committee, confirmed that no obstacles remain to restart the oil flow. “According to the budget amendment, the amount to be sent from the region is between 300,000 to 325,000 barrels of oil per day,” he stated.

Additionally, al-Faris revealed that the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) has requested an increase in the amount of oil used for domestic consumption, seeking an expansion from 45,000 barrels per day to 110,000 barrels per day.

Iraq’s Oil Minister, Hayan Abdul Ghani, announced last Friday that the Federal Oil Marketing Company (SOMO) would initially sell 185,000 barrels of Kurdistan Region oil per day through Turkey’s Ceyhan port. This figure is expected to gradually rise until it aligns with the quota specified in the federal budget.

The decision marks a significant development after prolonged disputes over oil revenue-sharing between the Kurdistan Regional Government and Baghdad. Since March 2023, exports have been halted following an international arbitration court ruling in Paris, which favored the Iraqi federal government in its legal battle over oil export rights.

The suspension of exports has resulted in an estimated loss of over $21 billion for Iraq’s treasury, underscoring the economic urgency of restoring Kurdish oil sales.

US-Iraq Talks and Diplomatic Pressure

The resumption of oil exports has been a key issue in recent U.S.-Iraq diplomatic discussions.

Last Tuesday, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio spoke with Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shi’a al-Sudani, marking their first official conversation. According to statements from both governments, the meeting was productive, addressing a range of issues, including the Iraq-Turkey pipeline.

On Friday, Reuters reported that the Trump administration has been pressuring Baghdad to allow the restart of Kurdish oil exports as part of Washington’s broader "maximum pressure" campaign on Iran. The U.S. sees Kurdistan’s oil exports as a strategic economic lever, and Secretary Rubio specifically raised the issue with Prime Minister Sudani.

Tammy Bruce, the U.S. State Department spokesperson, stated that both leaders agreed on the importance of reopening the Iraq-Turkey Pipeline "as quickly as possible." The involvement of Washington further underscores the geopolitical importance of Kurdish oil exports and the role they play in regional energy dynamics.

Economic and Political Implications

The restoration of oil exports is expected to ease financial strains on both Erbil and Baghdad. The KRG relies heavily on oil revenue to sustain its economy, and the prolonged suspension has exacerbated budgetary challenges, including delays in public sector salaries. Meanwhile, Baghdad seeks to recover billions in lost revenue and stabilize its economic outlook.

However, broader negotiations between the KRG and Iraq’s federal government remain ongoing, particularly regarding revenue-sharing mechanisms and long-term agreements on oil production rights.

As preparations are finalized and the first shipments of Kurdish oil are set to flow once again, all eyes will be on how efficiently the resumption process unfolds and whether it signals a more stable economic and political relationship between Erbil and Baghdad.  LINK

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Clare:  Due to the collapse of the toman.. Iranian parliament dismisses the Minister of Finance

3/2/2025

The Iranian parliament dismissed Finance Minister Abdolnaser Hemmati on Sunday after starting a no-confidence vote against him over his handling of the high inflation rate and the decline in the national currency exchange rate, state television reported.

The source explained that the Minister of Economic Affairs and Finance, Abdolnasser Hemmati, lost the vote of no confidence against him, with 182 parliamentarians out of 273 who attended the session designated for his dismissal supporting the motion.

Earlier on Sunday, Iran's parliament began a session that included a vote of no confidence in the finance minister, following a sharp decline in the value of the Iranian currency, the rial.

On the black market on Sunday, the riyal was trading at more than 920,000 to the US dollar, compared to less than 600,000 in mid-2024.

The decision to withdraw confidence from Finance Minister Abdolnaser Hemmati comes nearly 8 months after the formation of the government under President Masoud Pezeshkian.

Under the Iranian constitution, the minister's dismissal would take effect immediately, with an acting minister appointed until the government chooses a replacement.   LINK

Some Iraq News Posted by Clare at KTFA 3-2-2025

KTFA:

Clare:  The Central Bank invites the Ministry of Culture to receive gold artifacts deposited in its vaults

In light of Baghdad being chosen as the Arab Tourism Capital for 2025 by the Arab Tourism Organization, and in order to provide Iraqi museums with original antiquities to be a tourist destination that attracts tourists from all over the world, the Central Bank of Iraq confirms the existence of about 23 boxes containing golden and historical antiquities, such as the Nimrud antiquities, which were deposited in the vaults of the Central Bank of Iraq in previous years to preserve them.

The Central Bank called on the Ministry of Culture to receive these deposits, to enhance the contents of the Iraqi National Museum and other museums.

 Central Bank of Iraq 
Media Office 
March 1, 2025

https://cbi.iq/news/view/2809

Clare:  Central Bank: Gold reserves grow by 45.1%

3/2/2025 

The Central Bank announced, today, Sunday, that gold reserves grew by 45.1% in the fourth quarter of 2024 compared to the same quarter of the previous year.

The bank's media stated in a statement received by {Al Furat News} that "gold reserves increased from 12.29 trillion dinars in the fourth quarter of 2023 to 17.83 trillion dinars in the same quarter of 2024," explaining that this growth is due to the increase in the amount of gold and global gold prices.

The statement added that "the growth of reserves has great benefits, as it enhances economic and financial stability and protects against risks, and is considered an important tool for intervening in the foreign exchange market."  LINK

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Clare:  Iraqi dinar hits nine-month high against US dollar

3/2/2025    ERBIL  –

The Iraqi Dinar exchange rate has reached its highest level in the past nine months, with the currency strengthening against the US Dollar in both the Iraqi and Kurdistan Region markets.

On Sunday, the US Dollar was trading at 147,750 dinars, but it has since appreciated to 145,950 dinars, signaling a positive shift in the national currency's value.

This significant improvement is largely attributed to the effective measures implemented by the Central Bank of Iraq. The bank's consistent efforts in maintaining a steady supply of dollars, coupled with a decrease in demand for the US currency, have played a key role in strengthening the dinar. 

Despite rumors surrounding potential sanctions on Iraqi banks, the exchange rate has remained stable, providing further confidence in the resilience of the Iraqi economy.   LINK

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Clare:  Dollar prices decline "gradually" in Baghdad and Erbil

3/2/2025

The markets of the Iraqi capital, Baghdad, and Erbil, the capital of the Kurdistan Region, are witnessing a gradual decline in the exchange rates of the US dollar today, Sunday.

Shafaq News Agency correspondent reported that the dollar prices decreased in Al-Kifah and Al-Harithiya stock exchanges in Baghdad, where the exchange rate at one o'clock in the afternoon recorded 147,100 dinars for every 100 dollars, after it was 147,800 dinars this morning.

In the local markets in the capital, exchange rates declined at exchange offices, with the selling price reaching 148,000 dinars for every 100 dollars, while the buying price reached 146,000 dinars.

In Erbil, the dollar recorded a similar decline, with the selling price reaching 146,400 dinars per 100 dollars, while the buying price reached 146,300 dinars.  LINK

Clare:  Financial and Economic Measures.. Iraqi Finance Ministry Announces Results of its Meeting with the International Monetary Fund

3/2/2025

The Iraqi Ministry of Finance announced, on Sunday, the results of its meetings with the International Monetary Fund, indicating an agreement to intensify efforts to expand cooperation with foreign correspondent banks, while the IMF stressed the importance of developing the banking sector.

The ministry stated in a statement received by Shafaq News Agency, "The Iraqi delegation concluded its meetings with the International Monetary Fund in Amman during the period from February 24 to 26, 2025, with the participation of the Minister of Finance, Taif Sami Muhammad, and the Governor of the Central Bank of Iraq. Iraq's economic performance and prospects for sustainable growth were discussed, amid appreciation for the progress made."

He explained that "the discussions, in which experts from the Ministries of Finance, Planning, Oil, Electricity and the Central Bank participated, focused on macroeconomic indicators, where a remarkable growth in non-oil GDP was recorded at 5% for 2024, driven by the expansion of the agricultural sector and increased public spending, with growth expected to continue at 3.5% in 2025.

The mission confirmed that these figures reflect an improvement in economic diversification and a reduction in dependence on oil, which enhances the stability of the national economy, in addition to reviewing actual expenditures and expected revenues for 2024 and expectations for 2025 and how to finance the deficit."

The statement added, "The meeting also discussed updating the public debt strategy with mechanisms that ensure public financial sustainability and enhance investor confidence in government bonds. The IMF also stressed the importance of developing the banking sector to support investments and attract foreign capital, which contributes to creating a more stable financial environment."

The International Monetary Fund confirmed, according to the statement, "its support for Iraq in developing financial policies by providing advisors and experts to help the Ministry of Finance manage public debt and improve the tax system in line with the requirements of economic growth."

The statement continued, "Within the framework of enhancing financial stability, it was agreed to intensify efforts to expand cooperation with foreign correspondent banks, which facilitates foreign trade financing operations, in addition to enhancing the use of the Iraqi dinar in major transactions, which enhances the strength of the national currency."

The statement concluded by saying, "The meetings emphasized the continued progress in financial and economic reforms, which reflects the Iraqi government's commitment to achieving financial sustainability that supports development and stimulates investment, in light of an ongoing strategic partnership with the International Monetary Fund."

On February 26, Iraqi Finance Minister Taif Sami discussed with the International Monetary Fund financial and banking reforms to support the Iraqi economy, during periodic meetings held in the Jordanian capital, Amman.  LINK

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Clare: Kurdish delegation holds meeting in Baghdad to decide on resuming oil exports

3/2/2025

Informed sources reported on Sunday that a delegation from the Kurdistan Regional Government arrived in the capital, Baghdad, to put the final touches on the file of resuming oil exports via the Turkish Ceyhan pipeline.

A source told Shafaq News Agency, "A delegation from the Ministry of Energy and Natural Resources of the Kurdistan Regional Government is currently holding a meeting with officials at the headquarters of the Federal Ministry of Oil, to resolve matters related to resuming oil exports from the region's fields, and other issues related to the work of companies."

Another source told the agency, "This meeting was scheduled to be held next Tuesday, but developments in the file prompted the date to be brought forward," without mentioning further details.

Yesterday, Saturday, the Federal Ministry of Oil invited international oil companies under the umbrella of "APICOR" and contracted with the Kurdistan Regional Government, in addition to the Ministry of Natural Resources in the region, to attend a meeting in Baghdad next Tuesday, March 4, 2025.

Last Friday, eight international oil companies operating in the Kurdistan Region announced that they would not resume oil exports through the Turkish port of Ceyhan, despite Baghdad’s announcement of the imminent resumption of exports.

Before that, Deputy Prime Minister for Energy Affairs and Minister of Oil Hayan Abdul Ghani announced the resumption of Kurdistan Region oil exports via the Turkish port of Ceyhan within the coming hours. LINK

Frank26 “News and Views” Sunday AM 3-2-2025

KTFA:

Frank26:  "PROOF THAT THEY WORK THROUGH RAMADAN"......F26

Parliament will not be suspended" .. Parliamentary Legal Committee reveals the plan for sessions during Ramadan

2/27/2025

 A member of the Parliamentary Legal Committee, Mohammed Anouz, confirmed on Thursday that the Iraqi Parliament will not be suspended early due to the upcoming legislative elections, stressing that the Council has a moral and constitutional responsibility to continue holding its sessions and approving the remaining laws.

Anouz added to Shafaq News Agency that the first and second legislative chapters are sufficient to complete the reading, discussion and voting on many laws, stressing that the Council will resume its sessions next week.

He pointed out that Parliament sessions during the month of Ramadan will be in the evening, i.e. after breakfast, to ensure the continuation of legislative work before the end of the current session.

It is noteworthy that the current session of the Iraqi Council of Representatives began on January 9, 2022, and is scheduled to continue for four years, which means that it will end on January 8, 2026. 

According to the amended Electoral Law No. 12 of 2018, legislative elections must be held 45 days before the end of the parliamentary term. 

Accordingly, the next elections are expected to be held in late November 2025. 

Recently, the Independent High Electoral Commission began its technical and logistical preparations to ensure that the elections are held on the scheduled date, in coordination with the Prime Minister’s Office.   LINK

Frank26:  "ONCE AGAIN CBI REACHED TO THE INTERNATIONAL THEATER, NOT AT 1310!!!".....F26

CBI Governor announces integration of Iraq's e-payment system with global networks

 2/26/2025  BAGHDAD

The Governor of the Central Bank of Iraq, Ali Al-Alaq, announced on Wednesday the details of electronic payment in all of Iraq, he pointed out that the financial inclusion rate has increased to more than 40 percent, he emphasized that the bank has achieved international integration by linking the Iraqi electronic payment system to global networks

Al-Alaq said in a speech during the ninth annual exhibition and conference for finance and banking services in Iraq, which was attended by a reporter of the Iraqi News Agency (INA): “There is a complete roadmap for the digitization of banking services through electronic payment as a key tool for digital transformation, as the number of devices reached 63 thousand devices in the governorates of Iraq.”

“The number of ATMs has reached more than 4,000 devices and the number of bank cards is about 17 million,” he added.

“The Central Bank supported the licensing and operation of mobile e-wallets that allow charging, transferring and paying bills, which raised the rate of financial inclusion to more than 40% compared to 20% three years ago,” he said.

“The number of permanent wallets has reached one million and 200 thousand wallets, and we have achieved international integration by linking the Iraqi electronic payment system to global payment networks, allowing the transformation of the acceptance of foreign cards locally and expanding the acceptance of Iraqi cards internationally,” he said.

“The achievements in the field of information technology and electronic payments at the Central Bank are a fundamental shift in the financial system,” he said. LINK

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Frank26:  "NORTHERN IRAQ OIL FIELDS WELCOME RUSSIA".....F26

Russia announces imminent resumption of oil projects in Kurdistan Region

 2/27/2025

The Russian Ministry of Energy announced, on Thursday, the imminent resumption of oil projects in the Kurdistan Region. 

The Russian news agency TASS quoted Russian Energy Minister Sergei Tsevilev as saying that the Kurdistan Region of Iraq and the Iraqi government had reached a settlement to their disputes over oil, which would allow Russian companies to resume their projects in the region.

Among the companies that suspended operations in the region is Rosneft, Russia's largest oil producer.

The company has suspended some operations for security reasons while carrying out work near the border with Syria.

Last Monday, Iraqi Oil Minister Hayan Abdul Ghani said that Iraq is waiting for Türkiye's approval to resume oil flows from the Kurdistan Region of Iraq, hoping to resume them within two days.

According to TASS, the Russian Energy Minister said he had received information about resolving the differences between the region and the federal government.  LINK

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Frank26:  "DIGITAL CURRENCY IS SO HARD TO STEAL... ISN'T IT PARLIAMENT?".....F26

The digital currency to be launched in Iraq.. between economic opportunities and potential risks

 2/26/2025  Baghdad

Today, Wednesday (February 26, 2025), the expert in international economic affairs, Nawar Al-Saadi, revealed the importance of the Central Bank of Iraq launching its own digital currency.

Al-Saadi told Baghdad Today, “From an economic standpoint, this step has great benefits, but at the same time it involves challenges and risks that must be dealt with carefully.”

He explained that “the importance of this step lies in several aspects, most notably that it provides a more efficient and transparent means of electronic payment, which reduces reliance on paper money and limits the informal economy,” adding: “It also contributes to enhancing financial inclusion by facilitating digital transactions, especially in a country like Iraq where a large percentage of the population is still outside the formal banking system.”

He added, "The central bank's digital currency could help reduce the costs of printing and managing paper currency, and improve control over cash flows, which would help combat corruption and money laundering."

“However, this step is not without risks, especially in light of the challenges facing the Iraqi financial system,” he added, indicating that “the most prominent concerns are the possibility of using digital currency in smuggling operations, especially if there are no strict mechanisms to monitor digital transactions. Iraq already suffers from challenges in controlling money transfers through informal channels, and any weakness in managing digital currency could lead to its exploitation by illegal networks.”

Al-Saadi also warned that “there are risks related to monetary stability, as the rapid transition to digital currency may lead to pressures on the traditional banking system, especially if banks are not technically and practically prepared for this change.” Moreover, any security or technical flaw in the digital infrastructure may make the financial system more vulnerable to cyber attacks or hacking.”

The international economic affairs expert pointed out that “in order to ensure the success of this step, it is necessary for the Central Bank to follow a well-thought-out policy to implement it gradually, with a clear legal framework to regulate the use of digital currency,” stressing “the need to strengthen the digital banking infrastructure and ensure the readiness of the financial system to accommodate this transformation without affecting economic stability.” If this policy is implemented with caution and transparency, the Central Bank’s digital currency can be an effective tool to strengthen the Iraqi economy and push it towards more modernity and financial openness.”

Earlier on Wednesday, the Central Bank Governor, Ali Al-Alaq, revealed the intention to create a digital banking currency to replace paper currencies.

Al-Alaq said, in a speech during the Ninth Finance and Banking Services Conference and Exhibition, which was followed by “Baghdad Today”, that “the financial and banking system will witness fundamental transformations, including the decline of paper currencies to be replaced by digital payments for central banks.”

He added that "the Central Bank is moving to create its own digital currency, to gradually replace the paper process as is happening in some central banks in the world," indicating that "we are seriously considering establishing a data center in Iraq, and the bank has begun to move on this issue as part of the digital transformation steps."  LINK

Frank26:  "MIGA!!!"......Make Iraq Great Again!!  .F26     

 After calling for cutting funding to Baghdad, US representative: Let's make Iraq great again

2/28/2025

US Republican Representative Joe Wilson called for "making Iraq great again" and stopping Iran's control over it, after his previous calls to stop funding Iraq, according to the American Fox News channel.

The American report, which was translated by Shafaq News Agency, explained that Wilson, who is also a member of the Foreign Affairs Committee in the US House of Representatives, published a tweet on the "X" platform, in which he said, "Make Iraq great again," accompanied by a picture of the Iraqi flag.

The report noted that many people commented on Representative Wilson's tweet, including one who wrote to him saying, "America first? " , while another commented saying, "Forget Iraq and worry about the Americans."

The report indicated that "Representative Wilson spoke publicly on social media about various foreign countries, including Iraq and Iran, where he criticized Tehran's control over Baghdad, and repeatedly used the phrase "liberate Iraq from Iran."

The report quoted Wilson as saying in previous positions, "Iran runs the Iraqi government, as well as the army, judiciary, police and banks."

In a previous post, Wilson said that “the great people of Iraq, of all religions and ethnicities, are the heirs of a great civilization, and deserve better than to be ruled by a terrorist regime in Iran,” criticizing the former Joe Biden administration’s abandonment of the non-sectarian protest movement in Iraq, adding that “we must empower the Iraqi people to make Iraq great again and liberate Iraq from Iran.”

The report also mentioned Wilson's previous publications, in which he called for "stopping funding for Iraq" and "cutting off all aid to Iraq as long as Iran runs it."  LINK

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Frank26:  "MONETARY REFORM TEACHES... FROM THE RV TO THE RI."......F26

Analysis detailing the reasons for the fluctuations in the exchange rate of the Iraqi dinar against the dollar over 21 years

2/28/2025

The "Iraq Al-Mustaqbal" Foundation for Economic Studies and Consultations attributed, on Friday, the reasons for the fluctuations in the exchange rate of the dinar against the US dollar in the parallel market over more than two decades in the country to internal and external factors.

This came according to an analysis issued by the institution, in which it explained these fluctuations from 2005 until 2024.

The institution stated in its analysis that "the exchange rate of the Iraqi dinar against the US dollar in the parallel market witnessed noticeable fluctuations over the course of 21 years, as it was affected by a group of factors ranging from political, legislative and economic."

The analysis added that "supply and demand were the most influential, as the patterns of exchange rate changes differed according to the months of the year as a result of internal and external factors, such as the timing of the launch of the general budget and official holidays in major countries exporting goods to Iraq, such as China and Iran."

He pointed out that "by analyzing the exchange rate data in the parallel market from 2005 to 2024, there appears to be a recurring pattern that reflects the dinar's value being affected by specific months more than others."

According to the institution, “December was the month with the most frequent increase in the value of the dinar, as it witnessed a decline in 13 years out of 21 years, followed by: August and June with increases in the value of the dinar against the dollar in 11 years, then April 10 times, while October and November witnessed an increase 9 times, and March 8 times.”

May was the month with the least frequent decline in the value of the dinar, as its value rose only 4 times during the period studied, which gives a semi-impression that the prices of the dinar against the dollar rise in the months of February, March and April, then decline again against the dollar in May as a result of the strong return of demand in May.

The institution warned in its analysis that "despite this clear seasonal impact on the exchange rate, there are other factors that cannot be ignored, such as the levels of dollar sales by the Central Bank of Iraq, which directly affect the size of the money supply in the market, as well as political and financial factors such as the timing of the release of general budget funds, in addition to geopolitical situations that may cause sudden disturbances in the demand for foreign currency."

The analysis concluded that “the seasonal effect remains one of the main elements in determining the exchange rate trends in Iraq, as a recurring pattern appears at the end of the year and the beginning of the fiscal year, in addition to being affected by official holiday periods in countries exporting goods to Iraq. However, other factors, such as monetary policies and political and economic developments, remain a direct influence on the parallel market, which makes it necessary to monitor all these variables to understand exchange rate changes more accurately.”  LINK

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Frank26:  "DIGITAL CURRENCY IS SAFER THAN PAPER... SECURITY & STABILITY!!!"........F26

"From Safe Internet to Smart Systems" Iraq Enters the Digital Revolution Era with Steady Steps

2/28/2025

The financial advisor to the Prime Minister, Mazhar Muhammad Salih, confirmed that Iraq is moving steadily towards achieving a major digital renaissance, based on a set of foundations that support this trend. 

Saleh explained to {Euphrates News} agency, "The most prominent of these foundations is the progress achieved in two types of infrastructure."

He explained that "the first category is represented by the advanced technological infrastructure, whether through secure and strong internet networks or digital payment systems that work effectively and efficiently in parallel with each other."

Saleh continued, "As for the other category, it is the advanced legal infrastructure that provides protection for the rights of users, operators, and the public right against electronic and financial crimes arising from the digital transformation."

He pointed out "the importance of having the ability to keep pace with the developments of digital technology in the virtual world on an ongoing basis," indicating that "the advisory team in the General Secretariat and all relevant Iraqi state institutions are keen to achieve this to ensure that Iraq enters the new digital age."

 Raghad   LINK

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Frank26:  "APIKUR WANTS TO GET PAID...BECAUSE THEY TOO WAIT FOR THE NEW EXCHANGE RATE."....F26 

'IOCs Demand Written Agreements, Payment Surety', APIKUR Spokesperson

3/1/2025   ERBIL –

As discussions continue over the resumption of oil exports from the Kurdistan Region, Colonel Myles B. Caggins III, spokesperson for the Association of the Petroleum Industry of Kurdistan (APIKUR), has emphasized the necessity of formal agreements before any further steps are taken.

Speaking exclusively to Kurdistan 24, Caggins laid out APIKUR’s conditions, stressing that without clear, binding agreements, international oil companies (IOCs) will not proceed with production and exports.

APIKUR’s Stance on Oil Exports

Caggins explained that APIKUR, which represents eight companies operating in the Kurdistan Region, collectively produces over 60% of the region’s oil.

He clarified that while APIKUR welcomes the Iraqi Oil Minister’s statement regarding the resumption of oil exports, the reality is that no formal agreements are currently in place. According to him, the lack of written contracts is a fundamental obstacle preventing exports from moving forward.

“We need agreements in writing. These are called sales agreements and lifting agreements. Our companies need to know that when they produce oil, they will get payment and the path for payment,” Caggins stated.

He emphasized that across the global oil industry, including in federal Iraq, such agreements are standard practice, ensuring both producers and buyers have a clear understanding of their obligations. Without these legal documents, APIKUR companies remain hesitant to restart production.

Caggins illustrated the issue with a simple analogy: “I was at a restaurant in Zakho a couple of days ago, and I had breakfast. The restaurant owner understood that if he gave me chai, I was going to pay him in Iraqi dinar. It’s the same concept. If our companies are producing oil, they need to know how and when they will get paid.”

Aligning Payments with the Iraqi Budget Law

Another major concern raised by APIKUR is ensuring that payments to oil companies align with the Iraqi Budget Law.

Under the current arrangement, the Iraqi central government provides payments to the KRG based on total oil production in the Kurdistan Region. These funds are then allocated among oil companies based on production volumes.

Caggins highlighted the importance of ensuring that APIKUR companies receive payments consistent with their contracts with the KRG and in accordance with Iraq’s budget law.

He further stressed that the Iraqi Prime Minister has publicly expressed the need to resume oil exports for the benefit of all Iraqis.

The U.S. government, including Secretary of State Marco Rubio, has also voiced support for the continuation of Kurdistan’s oil exports, recognizing the economic benefits it brings to Iraq as a whole.

Caggins emphasized that honoring contracts with oil companies would enhance Iraq’s attractiveness to foreign investors across multiple industries.

Addressing Outstanding Payments and Future Export Volumes

Before resuming exports, APIKUR insists that there must be a structured plan to address outstanding payments. Caggins revealed that international oil companies operating in Kurdistan were not paid for the oil they produced between October 2022 and March 2023, resulting in over one billion dollars in arrears.

He stressed that before production resumes, there must be a written plan outlining how these arrears will be repaid.

“We just need to know that there is a plan in writing for us to get the money. That plan needs to be written on paper and agreed to for how the companies will get repaid and when they will get repaid,” he said, acknowledging that different companies may have their own individual decisions to make but stressing the need for a clear financial roadmap.

Furthermore, APIKUR seeks assurances regarding future oil export volumes. Decisions about how much oil will be exported and at what rates must also be specified in formal agreements.

“You see, it all comes back to these written agreements,” Caggins reiterated. “We cannot do business based on press statements and tweets. We need agreements on paper.”

As Baghdad and Erbil continue negotiations on the future of Kurdistan’s oil sector, APIKUR remains firm in its position that transparency and contractual certainty are non-negotiable.

With ongoing discussions between the KRG, Baghdad, and international stakeholders, the coming weeks will be crucial in determining whether an agreement can be reached that satisfies all parties.

Caggins concluded by reaffirming APIKUR’s commitment to its investments in Kurdistan and willingness to cooperate in securing a sustainable future for oil production in the region.

However, he made it clear that without written agreements, the resumption of Kurdistan’s oil exports remains uncertain.  LINK

FRANK26….2-26-25……..AKI/BANK STORY

KTFA

Wednesday Night Conference Call

FRANK26….2-26-25……..AKI/BANK STORY

This video is in Frank’s and his team’s opinion only  

Frank’s team is Walkingstick, Eddie in Iraq and guests

Playback Number: 605-313-5163   PIN: 156996#

What Frank’s suit color’s mean…. FRANKS SUIT COLORS FOR CC'S..... WHITE = NEW INFO…. SILVER = INTEL FROZEN…. RED= HIGH ALERT… PURPLE=GUEST WITH US…. BLUE = AIR FORCE…. BLACK = GROUND/FF’S…. GREEN= MR OR FAB 4 ... GOLD = CHANGE… ORANGE=IMPLEMENTATION

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2haJ-Tpx3tE

Some Iraq News Posted by Clare at KTFA 2-26-2025

KTFA:

Clare:  Trade Bank of Iraq stops cash withdrawals via ATMs outside Iraq

2/26/2025

The Trade Bank of Iraq announced today, Wednesday, the suspension of cash withdrawals via automated teller machines (ATM) using electronic cards (Visa and MasterCard) outside Iraq, as part of preventive measures to avoid security risks associated with the misuse of these cards.

The bank explained, in a statement received by {Al Furat News} a copy of it, that:

“The decision only includes cash withdrawals from ATMs outside Iraq, while users can continue to use cards to pay via POS devices or in electronic transactions on the Internet.”

The bank pointed out that "this measure comes out of concern for protecting customers' money from any security threats that may result from misuse of cards in some areas."   LINK

Clare:  The Central Bank of Iraq is moving towards launching a digital banking currency instead of paper currency

2/26/2025

The Governor of the Central Bank, Ali Al-Alaq, revealed on Wednesday the intention to create a digital banking currency to replace paper currencies.

Al-Alaq said, in a speech during the 9th Finance and Banking Services Conference and Exhibition, which was followed by Shafak News Agency, that "the financial and banking system will witness fundamental transformations, including the decline of paper currencies to be replaced by digital payments for central banks."

He added that "the Central Bank is moving to create its own digital currency, to gradually replace the paper process as is happening in some central banks in the world," indicating that "we are seriously considering establishing a data center in Iraq, and the bank has begun to move on this issue as part of the digital transformation steps."

Al-Alaq continued, " The current stage is witnessing a major development in the electronic payment system through increasing the number of ATMs and credit wallets," indicating that "the support provided by the Central Bank helped raise the rate of financial inclusion in Iraq to 49% after it was 20%, about two years ago."

He pointed out that "Iraqi banks are witnessing today qualitative transformations in their banking operations, especially with regard to financial transfers of different currencies, through the adoption of approved global systems and programs that help them with these advanced transformations in financial services."  LINK

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Clare:  Mazhar Saleh stresses the importance of electronic payment in the digital transformation in Iraq

2/26/2025

Mazhar Muhammad Salih, advisor to the Prime Minister, confirmed today, Wednesday, that electronic payment is one of the basic pillars for achieving digital transformation and enhancing financial stability in Iraq.

He added in his statement to {Al Furat News}, that "electronic payment contributes to reducing the size of the informal economy, as it still constitutes about 70% of the operations of the Iraqi market, and it also enhances transparency in financial transactions and increases citizens' confidence in the banking system." 

He explained that "the adoption of electronic payment contributes significantly to reducing traditional cash transactions, which helps combat corruption and money laundering. It also contributes to accelerating commercial operations and the capital cycle in the Iraqi market, and enhances the integration of the national income cycle." 

Saleh pointed out that "digital transformation leads to improving the management of the state's financial resources, which enhances its ability to collect taxes and fees more efficiently."

He added, "This contributes to reaching advanced levels of growth in building the unified treasury account, which enables the banking system to operate credit and grant loans with the least amount of banking liquidity risks, which effectively enhances the financing of economic and development activity."

From.. Raghad   LINK

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Clare: Central Bank Governor inaugurates the 9th Finance and Banking Conference

His Excellency the Governor of the Central Bank of Iraq, Mr. Ali Mohsen Al-Alaq, inaugurated the 9th Finance and Banking Services Exhibition and Conference, in which a number of banks and payment companies operating in Iraq participated.

During his speech, His Excellency the Governor stressed that the current stage is witnessing a significant development in the electronic payment system by increasing the number of ATMs and credit wallets, noting that the support provided by the Central Bank has helped raise the financial inclusion rate in Iraq to 40% after it was 20% about two years ago.
The Governor pointed out that Iraqi banks are witnessing qualitative transformations in their banking operations today, especially with regard to financial transfers of different currencies by adopting approved global systems and programs that help them in these advanced transformations in financial services.

In his speech, he outlined the features of future banks that will transform from traditional entities to smart digital platforms and issue digital financial identities that facilitate financial transactions without the need for banks.

He added that the financial and banking system will witness the decline of paper currencies to be replaced by digital payments for central banks, and that the Central Bank is moving to create its own digital currency to gradually replace the paper process as is happening in some central banks in the world, indicating work to establish a data center in Iraq similar to the major centers in the world, as it is an indispensable part of the digital economy and a basis for artificial intelligence, applications, big data analysis and the Internet, and that the Central Bank of Iraq has begun steps in this direction, calling for the formulation of a comprehensive Iraqi vision for digital transformation.

Central Bank of Iraq
Media Office
February 26, 2025

https://cbi.iq/news/view/2807

Clare: Confirming Shafaq News.. Trump is heading to impose sanctions on Iraqi groups

2/26/2025

The American website "Fox News" published a report today, Wednesday, in which it referred to the "maximum pressure" sanctions that the Trump administration is pursuing against countries that have economic and trade relations with Iran, including Iraq, which includes punishing a group of banks and controlling Baghdad's reserves at the US Federal Reserve.

According to the website's report, translated by Shafaq News Agency, "These countries should expect to feel the shock waves resulting from Trump's campaign on the Iranian oil trade," indicating that Iran currently exports an average of 1.5 million barrels of oil per day, but under the executive order issued by Trump on February 6, the Secretaries of State and Treasury will work to "implement a campaign aimed at driving Iranian oil exports to zero."

The report touched on "$6 billion in Qatar from Iranian oil revenues held in Doha," noting that "this issue was raised during the meeting of Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei with Qatari Emir Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani this week."

The US report indicated that "Washington intends to cut off Iran's oil exports to China, which account for 90% of Iranian outflows, by sanctioning some individuals and ships associated with the so-called shadow fleet of ships transporting Iranian oil, but stricter campaigns could pass after Chinese banks that process oil transactions."

The Trump administration also intends, according to Fox News, to “withdraw waivers from Iran’s Chabahar port project, a major trade gateway in southern Iran with India, through which the latter has pumped $370 million. India had previously obtained a waiver for the project, allowing it to create a trade route in Central Asia that bypassed Pakistan, because American officials believed the port helped reconstruction efforts in Afghanistan.”

As for Iraq, the report explained that "the United States has great influence over Iraq, and $100 billion of the country's reserves are kept in the United States, and it can use this money to exert great pressure on Baghdad to distance it from Iranian influence."

The report cited "the ban on five Iraqi banks from conducting transactions in US dollars as a means of eliminating Iran's access to the US currency," considering that "Iraq is the lifeline for Iran's access to hard currency, and the United States has long sought to restrict Tehran's bypassing of sanctions through its neighbor."

Last Monday, Shafaq News Agency published a report revealing the efforts made by the Iraqi Ministry of Foreign Affairs to prevent the issuance of US sanctions against Iraq, including companies and names of leaders in the Popular Mobilization Authority.

According to an informed political source, who told Shafaq News Agency, requesting that his name not be mentioned, "American sanctions may be issued soon and will include a list of names of political figures who have armed factions."

The source also explained that "the list includes more than ten names, some of whom are leaders of the Popular Mobilization Forces, and others are well-known and have partnerships with important political forces," explaining that "the situation with the United States may escalate, and the goal is to control the movement of money in Iraq and to limit and weaken what the American administration calls Iran's arms and to stop supplying Tehran with hard currency through intermediaries."

The source pointed out that "there are three financial companies and three transportation companies, all of which operate within the Iraqi oil fleet, and they will also be on the blacklist, in order to pressure and stop the smuggling of currency and oil towards Iran."

On the 16th of this month, a responsible Iraqi government source revealed to Shafaq News Agency that the Iraqi government agencies received an official notification imposing US sanctions on five new Iraqi banks, for their involvement in illegal financial transfer operations inside and outside Iraq. LINK

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Clare:  Iraq discusses with the International Monetary Fund controlling expenditures and the 2024 budget

2/26/2025

The Iraqi Minister of Finance, Taif Sami, discussed with the International Monetary Fund, financial and banking reforms to support the Iraqi economy, during the periodic meetings held in the Jordanian capital, Amman.

The Iraqi Ministry of Finance said in a statement issued today, Wednesday, and received by Shafak News Agency, that the discussions focused on implementing the 2024 budget, with a review of mechanisms for controlling expenditures and enhancing the efficiency of distributing financial resources, in line with the state's economic goals. 

The two parties also discussed, according to the statement, ways to improve public finances by supporting investment and directing social spending towards vital sectors, in addition to enhancing non-oil revenues and reducing dependence on oil revenues.

The meetings also included discussing banking reforms, stressing the importance of updating financial systems to keep pace with global economic changes. 

It also reviewed the economic forecast for 2025 and potential strategies to increase non-oil revenues, including developing the tax system and implementing a unified accounting system.

During the meetings, Sami stressed that these meetings come within the framework of the Ministry’s efforts to enhance financial stability and achieve structural reforms that support the national economy, noting the importance of coordination with international partners and considering cooperation with the International Monetary Fund as a fundamental pillar in developing financial policies to confront current challenges.  LINK

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Clare:  Companies from 50 countries compete for electricity projects in Iraq  

2/26/2026

The spokesman for the Ministry of Electricity, Ahmed Musa, revealed on Wednesday that more than 300 companies representing 50 countries are participating in the Renewable Energy Conference, which is being held at the Baghdad International Fair from the 24th to the 26th of this month .

Musa told Shafaq News Agency, "The conference represents an important opportunity for local and international companies to view the Ministry of Electricity's projects in the renewable energy sector, and to present their investment offers to enhance the electrical infrastructure in Iraq."

Musa added that "the Iraqi government seeks to diversify gas and energy sources," noting that "the ministry had previously signed contracts with international companies to establish solar power stations, as part of its plans to support the shift towards clean energy."

Musa pointed out that "536 government buildings have been converted to operate with solar energy systems, in a move aimed at reducing pressure on the national electricity grid and enhancing energy sustainability in the country."

At the end of last month, the Iraqi Minister of Electricity, Ziyad Ali Fadhil, announced the launch of new production projects with a capacity of 15,000 megawatts, while confirming that the country’s energy production had increased by about 9,000 megawatts over the past two years  LINK

Some “Iraq News” Posted by Clare at KTFA 2-25-2025

KTFA

Clare:  Al-Sudani and US Secretary of State discuss areas of coordination between the two countries by phone

2/25/2025

 Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani received a phone call today, Tuesday, from US Secretary of State Marco Rubio.

A statement from the Prime Minister's Office, a copy of which was received by {Euphrates News}, stated that "during the phone call, the two sides discussed the overall bilateral relations between Iraq and the United States, and ways to enhance and develop them."

The statement added that "the call witnessed a discussion of areas of coordination between Iraq and the new US administration, and frameworks for cooperation in the context of bilateral agreements."

He pointed out that "the progress made in joint work in various fields was reviewed, and it was agreed to intensify communication and deepen cooperation." LINK

Clare: After a "difficult labor", the 2025 budget tables finally find their way to the Council of Ministers

2/24/2025

 A responsible source in the Iraqi Ministry of Finance stated on Monday that the delay in sending the federal budget tables to the Council of Ministers is related to amendments to Article 12 of the Budget Law.

The Iraqi parliament recently approved an amendment to the general budget related to Article 12, which settles a dispute between the Kurdistan Region and the federal government over receiving the region’s oil.

In summary, the Iraqi Parliament voted in June 2023 on the draft general budget law for the fiscal years (2023, 2024, 2025), to approve special budget tables for those years, which will be sent by the Iraqi government to Parliament for voting.

The government source told Shafaq News Agency, "The Ministry of Finance has been working for some time on preparing the general budget tables for the year 2025, in order to send them to the Council of Ministers for approval."

He pointed out that "the Ministry of Finance will finish preparing the tables and send them to the Council of Ministers for voting on them in the middle of next month," noting that "the Council of Ministers will vote on the tables without delay and then send them to the House of Representatives for voting on them."

The Federal Ministry of Oil announced yesterday, Sunday, the completion of the necessary procedures to complete the export of oil produced in the Kurdistan Region via the Turkish port of Ceyhan, stressing that this step comes in accordance with the mechanisms specified in the budget law and its amendment, and within the production ceiling set for Iraq in the OPEC organization.

The Kurdistan Regional Government's negotiating delegation responded to the Ministry of Oil's announcement by calling on the federal government to implement its obligations before proceeding with the oil export process.

The delegation explained that despite the regional government’s confirmation of its commitment to implementing the first amendment law to the federal general budget law, which relates to re-exporting oil produced from the region’s fields to the Turkish port of Ceyhan via SOMO, implementing the law requires agreement on several basic points, including determining the quantities allocated for local consumption in the region, in line with actual needs, similar to the rest of Iraq, and establishing a clear and specific mechanism for paying the dues of production and transportation companies to the regional government, in accordance with what is stated in the law.  LINK

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Clare:  PM Advisor announces Launch of 70 Banking Products to Promote Development and Financial Inclusion

2/25/2025  Baghdad-

The Prime Minister's Advisor for Economic Affairs, Abdul Hussein Al-Anbaki, announced today, Tuesday, the launch of 70 new Islamic banking products.

Al-Anbaky told the Iraqi News Agency (INA) that "the Sharia Standards Committee for Islamic Banks continues to review more standards to ensure their compliance with national regulations, within the framework of cooperation with the Accounting and Auditing Organization for Islamic Financial Institutions (AAOIFI)," noting that "the Sharia standards set by the organization are adopted in 37 regulatory bodies across 26 countries as a basis for formulating local regulations and are not mandatory."

He added that "the new banking products represent a qualitative shift in the banking sector, and will contribute to attracting savings, stimulating development financing, and reducing the phenomenon of hoarding, which negatively affects the Iraqi economy, with 73% of the money supply remaining outside banks."

He explained that "these products provide banking solutions that are compatible with Sharia controls, which enhances customer confidence in Islamic banks, and pushes towards expanding financial inclusion and raising the credit rating of Iraqi Islamic banks. It will also allow a large segment of society to return to banking transactions, after having been deprived of them due to the absence of products compatible with Islamic Sharia."

Al-Anbaki called on "the Central Bank to support these products and integrate them into monetary policies, to ensure their positive impact in enhancing financial stability, stimulating the supply of money and demand for it, and increasing the doubling of credit," stressing that "this step will enable Iraq to benefit from global experiences in Islamic banking systems, which will contribute to achieving comprehensive economic development."  LINK

Clare: The Central Bank organizes a workshop on the international Islamic standards issued by the AAOIFI

The Central Bank of Iraq organized a workshop on the international Islamic standards issued by the Accounting and Auditing Organization for Islamic Financial Institutions (AAOIFI).

The workshop witnessed the participation of a number of employees of the Central Bank and employees of the banking sector in Iraq.

The workshop discussed the international Islamic standards issued by the Accounting and Auditing Organization for Islamic Financial Institutions (AAOIFI) and the importance of applying them at the level of the Iraqi banking sector.

It is noteworthy that the Central Bank of Iraq organizes seminars and workshops on an ongoing basis to advance the banking sector and its employees alike.

 Central Bank of Iraq
Media Office
February 25, 2025

https://cbi.iq/news/view/2802

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Clare:  Iraq signs agreement with British Petroleum to rehabilitate four Kirkuk fields

2/25/2025

 On Tuesday, the Iraqi government signed an agreement with the British Petroleum

(BP) company to rehabilitate and develop the four Kirkuk fields, under the auspices and attendance of Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al- Sudani .

The Prime Minister's Office stated in a statement received by Shafaq News Agency, "This signing comes after an agreement with the concerned company on technical issues and contractual terms, including the economic model of the project, based on the memoranda of understanding that were signed in London during Al-Sudani's last visit to Britain, which aimed to ensure the best contractual terms and benefits for the Iraqi side, after detailed and lengthy negotiations with the Ministry of Oil, according to his directives, for the optimal investment of energy and providing crude oil to the northern refineries and reducing their dependence on southern oil, and the agreement is the final stage before signing the contract in a final manner."

The statement added, "The agreement includes developing the four main Kirkuk fields (Bai Hassan, Kirkuk with its two domes "Baba and Avana", Jambur, and Khabbaz), in a way that guarantees the investment of associated gas, as well as the rehabilitation and expansion of gas facilities in the North Gas Company and the establishment of a power station with a capacity of 400 megawatts to achieve the desired goals of this integrated strategic project."

The statement indicated that "this project will provide for the absorption of workers in various specializations, operate local companies, implement social benefit projects, and develop the skills of engineering and technical resources, supporting the staff of the North Oil Company and the North Gas Company, within the government's vision for training programs and raising the level of competencies within the framework of what British Petroleum provides, in coordination with the Ministry of Oil." LINK

FRANK26….2-24-25……IT’S AN RI Parts 1 and 2

KTFA

Monday Night Conference Call

FRANK26….2-24-25……IT’S AN RI

This video is in Frank’s and his team’s opinion only

Frank has stated he will no longer do public videos on the Iraqi dinar UNLESS it is Important, Prudent or Necessary.  

Frank’s team is Walkingstick, Eddie in Iraq and guests

Playback Number: 605-313-5163   PIN: 156996#

What Frank’s suit color’s mean…. FRANKS SUIT COLORS FOR CC'S..... WHITE = NEW INFO…. SILVER = INTEL FROZEN…. RED= HIGH ALERT… PURPLE=GUEST WITH US…. BLUE = AIR FORCE…. BLACK = GROUND/FF’S…. GREEN= MR OR FAB 4 ... GOLD = CHANGE… ORANGE=IMPLEMENTATION

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oPQ3q4TUQ50

FRANK26….2-24-25….IT’S AN RI PART 2

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A0hv_l4JVwk

FRANK26….2-21-25……DROWNING

KTFA

Friday night conference call:

FRANK26….2-21-25……DROWNING

This video is in Frank’s and his team’s opinion only

Frank has stated he will no longer do public videos on the Iraqi dinar UNLESS it is Important, Prudent or Necessary.  

Frank’s team is Walkingstick, Eddie in Iraq and guests

Playback Number: 605-313-5163   PIN: 156996#

What Frank’s suit color’s mean…. FRANKS SUIT COLORS FOR CC'S..... WHITE = NEW INFO…. SILVER = INTEL FROZEN…. RED= HIGH ALERT… PURPLE=GUEST WITH US…. BLUE = AIR FORCE…. BLACK = GROUND/FF’S…. GREEN= MR OR FAB 4 ... GOLD = CHANGE… ORANGE=IMPLEMENTATION

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uesWC9rbfvg

Some “Iraq News” Posted by Clare at KTFA 2-21-2025

KTFA:

Clare: Member of Parliamentary Finance: The failure of the 2025 budget tables to reach Parliament is hindering the work of spending {12/1}

2/21/2025

Member of the Parliamentary Finance Committee, Jamal Kojer, confirmed that the 2025 budget schedules have not yet reached Parliament.

Kocher told {Euphrates News} agency, "Despite the government's commitment to the requirements of Article 71 of the 2023 Budget Law, which obligates it to send the schedules on time annually."

Kocher pointed out that "the 2024 budget schedules cannot be voted on as an alternative to the 2025 budget, explaining that work is not being done according to Law (12/1) because the approved budget is not annual, but rather a three-year budget covering the years 2023, 2024 and 2025."

He explained that "disbursements during the year 2025 will be based on the share (12/1) of that year's budget within the time frame of the three-year budget."

Raghad  LINK

Clare:  New reform plans for the banking sector in Iraq

2/21/2025

 The Prime Minister's Advisor for Financial Affairs, Mazhar Muhammad Salih, stressed that achieving a unified vision to study the conditions of banks in Iraq requires the integration of the national banking market within a homogeneous framework aimed at enhancing the stability of the national financial system and developing its performance in the areas of credit, digital payments, and financing economic development.

Saleh said in a special statement to {Al Furat News}, "The first vision focuses on the importance of achieving integration between national banks in a way that enhances their role in supporting the Iraqi economy, pointing out that this requires updating the financial infrastructure and adopting modern technologies to meet the requirements of the era.

The second vision, according to the financial advisor, is related to developing two comprehensive reform plans targeting the public and private banking sectors, with the aim of improving the performance of these institutions in accordance with international standards. He explained that the reform will include improving governance and financial management and enhancing transparency, which will facilitate the involvement of Iraqi banks in the global financial relations network.

Saleh added that the direct goal of banking reform is to enable Iraqi banks to deal more effectively with the outside world, ensuring economic openness and attracting foreign investments, as well as strengthening Iraq's position on the international financial scene.

This trend comes in light of the government’s ongoing efforts to develop the financial sector and enhance its role in achieving sustainable development and supporting the national economy, as banking reform is viewed as an essential step towards achieving these goals.

Raghad  LINK

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Clare:  European Union to {Sabah}: We praise the reforms of the Sudanese government

2/20/2025

Baghdad: Hazem Mohammed Habib

 The European Union commended the economic reform plans and efforts drawn up and implemented by the government of Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani.

The Union praised the government's balanced diplomacy to bring peace and stability to the Middle East, which contributed to establishing Iraq as a "bridge for dialogue."

The European Union Ambassador to Iraq, Thomas Sailer, said in an exclusive interview with Al-Sabah: “The EU mission and the missions of the EU member states in Baghdad are working closely with the Iraqi government to push forward fundamental reforms.”

“The European Union commends the efforts of the government of Mohammed Shia al-Sudani in this area, and encourages the authorities, including the Council of Representatives and key economic stakeholders, to accelerate the pace of reforms, particularly in developing the private sector,” he added, explaining that “strengthening this sector will not only contribute to diversifying the economy, but will also increase Iraq’s attractiveness to European investors, traders and manufacturers, thus enhancing opportunities for economic cooperation between Iraq and Europe.”

Ambassador Sailer pointed out that “the European Union is also working with the Iraqi government in the areas of combating corruption, social protection, reforming the civil and military security sector, and developing the private sector, including the banking sector and corporate legislation,” stressing that “these areas are very important for Iraq to continue building a modern economy.” 

“We support Iraq in joining the World Trade Organization (WTO), which is necessary, among other things, to harmonize Iraqi laws with international standards,” he added.  LINK

Clare: Trade: Prices in hypermarkets are lower than those in local markets and we will reduce them by 40 percent

2/21/2025- Baghdad

The Ministry of Commerce announced today, Friday, a plan to increase the percentage of price reductions in hypermarkets to more than 40 percent, while indicating that all materials entering the hypermarket are subject to Iraqi specifications.

The Director General of the General Company for Foodstuff Trading at the Ministry of Trade, Lama Hashem Al-Moussawi, said in a statement to the official agency, which was followed by (Mawazine News):

“The hypermarket project and its locations came based on the directives of Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani in light of the government program based on services, as the project is primarily a service for citizens to control the prices of food and household goods,” noting that “the prices of materials are under the supervision and audit of the public sector, and also at competitive prices that serve the citizen, and whoever walks around the hypermarket will see the prices lower than their counterparts in local markets from 20% to 25%.”  LINK

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Clare:  Reuters: Trump administration gives Iraq a choice between quickly resuming Kurdish oil exports or facing sanctions

2/21/2025   Baghdad Today - Follow-up

The United States of America threatened, today, Friday, February 21, 2025, the federal government in Iraq with sanctions if the Kurdistan Region's oil exports are not resumed quickly.

Reuters quoted sources as saying: “The administration of President Donald Trump asked Iraq to resume (Kurdish) oil exports quickly or face sanctions alongside Iran.”

The sources added, according to Reuters, that "Washington believes that Kurdish oil sales may help reduce crude prices and compensate for the decline in Iranian supplies."

Oil Minister Hayan Abdul Ghani revealed on Tuesday that Iraq had sent a delegation from the ministry to the Kurdistan Region to agree on a mechanism for delivering the region’s oil and exporting it through the Turkish port of Ceyhan.

The Minister of Oil explained that he had contacted the Minister of Natural Resources in the region, Kamal Mohammed Saleh, to negotiate with the delegation about the mechanism for receiving and exporting oil through the Turkish port of Ceyhan.

This came a day after Iraq accelerated the expected date for the resumption of oil exports from Kurdistan, as the federal oil minister said last Monday that oil exports from the Kurdistan region could resume within just a week. 

It is noteworthy that the President of the Region, Nechirvan Barzani, announced a few days ago that the resumption of shipments will likely take place next March.

Iraq exports between 400,000 and 500,000 barrels per day from fields in the north of the country, including the Kurdistan region, via the now-defunct Iraq-Turkey pipeline.

Oil Minister Hayan Abdul Ghani said earlier this month that at least 300,000 barrels per day of crude were planned to be moved once operations resumed.

In Iraqi Kurdistan, oil production ranges between about 280,000 and 300,000 barrels per day, and the regional government estimates its needs for domestic consumption - including power generation - at about 110,000 to 120,000 barrels per day.    LINK

FRANK26…..2-18-25……CITIZENS KNOW

KTFA

Tuesday Night Conference Call

FRANK26…..2-18-25……CITIZENS KNOW

This video is in Frank’s and his team’s opinion only

Frank has stated he will no longer do public videos on the Iraqi dinar UNLESS it is Important, Prudent or Necessary.  

Frank’s team is Walkingstick, Eddie in Iraq and guests

Playback Number: 605-313-5163   PIN: 156996#

What Frank’s suit color’s mean…. FRANKS SUIT COLORS FOR CC'S..... WHITE = NEW INFO…. SILVER = INTEL FROZEN…. RED= HIGH ALERT… PURPLE=GUEST WITH US…. BLUE = AIR FORCE…. BLACK = GROUND/FF’S…. GREEN= MR OR FAB 4 ... GOLD = CHANGE… ORANGE=IMPLEMENTATION

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ILBpmC_Y7sE