Iraq’s Energy Future: Pathways to Security, Sustainability, and Growth Iraq Energy Conference

28 - 29 January 2026

Your Excellency Prime Minister Mohammed Shia’ Al-Sudani,

Excellencies, Distinguished Guests, Ladies and Gentlemen,

It is a pleasure to join you today at the Iraq Energy Conference today and I would like to thank Dr. Ashty Aladin for establishing this annual event bringing together government, the private sector, development partners, and experts to shape Iraq’s energy future.

This conference comes at a pivotal moment. 

Energy security, economic diversification, and climate resilience are no longer separate agendas; they are central, interconnected pillars of Iraq’s long-term stability and development.

Allow me to begin with a brief word on the role of the United Nations in Iraq. 

Following the conclusion of the mandate of the United Nations Assistance Mission for Iraq on 31 December 2025, the United Nations continues its engagement in the country under the  leadership of the UN Resident Coordinator.

This marks a new phase in UN–Iraq cooperation - one that reflects Iraq’s transition toward long-term, sustainable development. 

Our engagement is guided by the United Nations Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework for 2025–2029, signed with the Government of Iraq on 25 December 2025. 

This Framework serves as the UN’s strategic roadmap for supporting national priorities and advancing the Sustainable Development Goals, aligned with Iraq Vision 2030, through policy advice, institutional strengthening, and technical assistance.

Today’s focus on energy goes to the heart of Iraq’s development agenda. Reliable, affordable, and sustainable energy underpins economic growth, fiscal stability, service delivery, and the well-being of all Iraqis.

The Government of Iraq has articulated a clear strategic direction through national frameworks, including Iraq Vision 2030 and the National Development Plan 2024–2028, the Integrated National Energy Strategy, and Iraq’s updated Nationally Determined Contribution.

However, these strategies call for a clear implementation plan that can meet the ambition of the Paris Climate Agreement—that is to limit the global temperature rise to 1.5C. 

Implementation must be backed by: 

First, financing. Advancing Iraq’s energy transition requires predictable, blended financing that brings together public resources, donor support, and private investment. Targeted investments—such as solar energy for public buildings or gas capture to reduce flaring—can lower costs, strengthen energy security, create jobs, and deliver tangible progress toward the Sustainable Development Goals.

Second, implementation would require strong coordination across ministries, donors, international financial institutions, and the UN system to avoid fragmentation and deliver results at scale. 

Third, implementation can only be effective within a predictable and enforceable legal and regulatory frameworks which are essential to build investor confidence and ensure transparency.

The United Nations recognizes the leadership of the Government of Iraq, under Prime Minister Mohammed Shia’ Al-Sudani, in advancing energy transition and climate action. 

This includes ambitious plans to scale up renewable energy by 2030, continued efforts to reduce gas flaring and methane emissions, and the launch of Iraq’s first Climate Investment Plan for 2025–2030. 

Together, these initiatives signal a strong commitment to a more diversified, resilient, and forward-looking energy system.

The United Nations in Iraq is fully committed to supporting Iraq through this critical transition by providing high quality advisory services and technical assistance in advancing policy and regulatory reforms that prioritize sustainability, efficiency, and equity. 

These priorities are firmly anchored in both Iraq’s national plans and the Cooperation Framework.

Our shared vision is clear: an Iraq that is energy-secure, economically diversified, environmentally responsible, and fully equipped to realize its development ambitions. 

Achieving this vision will depend on strong partnerships—between the Government of Iraq, the private sector, international partners, and the United Nations.

In closing, let me reaffirm that the United Nations stands alongside the Government and people of Iraq as a committed partner in advancing a secure, sustainable, and climate-resilient energy future.

I wish you productive discussions and successful outcomes.