Cabinet Approves Crop Imports and Amendments to Medical Professions Law

The Cabinet held its regular session on Tuesday evening, chaired by Prime Minister Ali Falih Al-Zaydi, who directed his deputies and ministers approved by the Parliament to take the oath of office before the Iraqi people, emphasizing their commitment to the constitution, law, protecting citizens' interests, and safeguarding public funds. The Cabinet approved granting the Ministry of Agriculture the authority to open imports for all agricultural crops until December 31, 2026, aiming to enhance food security in the country. It also decided to waive customs fees on imported solar energy systems to encourage the use of clean energy and support the private sector. In the electricity sector, the Cabinet approved the signing of a contract to supply power ranging between 600 and 1000 megawatts by the General Company for Electricity Transmission for the northern region. In health affairs, the Cabinet approved the release of shipments of medicines, medical supplies, and vaccines from the Ministry of Health at border crossings, postponing customs fees collection with a formal commitment from the ministry to pay later, exempting these shipments from storage fees and fines, effective until the next federal budget law is enacted. The Cabinet also approved the fourth amendment draft law to the Medical and Health Professions Grading Law No. (6) of 2000, after review by the Council of State, and referred it to Parliament. Regarding maritime cooperation, the Cabinet approved the draft law ratifying the maritime transport agreement between Iraq and Qatar and sent it to Parliament. To supply water needs for oil facilities, the Cabinet approved a recommendation allowing Basra Oil Company to use water from the Dibdiba formation for washing purposes at the central treatment station and to use the work support camp for the development project of the Tuba field until an alternative water source is available. Additionally, the Cabinet granted the Ministry of Water Resources the authority to directly invite reputable international companies to prepare detailed designs for the second phase of constructing a cutoff dam on the Shatt al-Arab in the Maqil area, Basra province, as part of efforts to enhance water security.