BAGHDAD, 17th May, 2025 (WAM) -- Arab leaders have hailed the comprehensive vision presented by Iraq during the 34th Arab Summit in Baghdad, describing its initiatives as a vital starting point for enhancing joint Arab action to address shared challenges and promote development, stability, and prosperity across the Arab world.

In the "Baghdad Declaration", issued at the conclusion of the summit and the 5th Arab Economic and Social Development Summit also hosted in Baghdad, leaders commended the Iraqi proposals as a key pillar for advancing Arab solidarity and integration and for driving a qualitative shift in collective Arab efforts.

The declaration praised Iraq's leadership in hosting both summits and expressed appreciation for the progress it has achieved in economic development and its effective role in supporting Arab causes and cooperation across various fields.

Among the prominent Iraqi proposals was the launch of the Arab Fund to support recovery and post-crisis reconstruction efforts, with the Government of Iraq pledging US$40 million-half allocated to humanitarian and reconstruction efforts in Gaza, and the other half to reconstruction efforts in Lebanon.

Iraq also proposed a joint Arab initiative to support the Syrian people by facilitating a comprehensive political transition in Syria and building a democratic system that guarantees rights and freedoms. The initiative includes a call to organise an international conference focused on Syria's reconstruction and the safe and dignified return of refugees and displaced persons.

The declaration welcomed Iraq's invitation to participate in the Development Road Project, a strategic initiative connecting Arab countries with global markets to enhance regional economic integration. It also included a proposal for an Arab Economic Reform Charter over the next decade, aiming to build a competitive, integrated Arab economic space that fosters public-private partnerships and ensures social justice and environmental sustainability.

In the area of food security, Iraq proposed a grain production initiative based on sustainable agricultural and water policies, research, and planning to ensure the long-term preservation of resources for future generations.

On the technology front, Iraq introduced initiatives in artificial intelligence, including the establishment of a regional AI centre in Baghdad and a research initiative for advanced technologies, aimed at boosting digital security and knowledge development in line with ethical and cultural values.

Another key initiative was the proposal to form an Arab Water Resources Protection Alliance to address water scarcity and climate change, and to uphold Arab water rights within the context of regional security.

Environmentally, Baghdad announced a regional initiative to combat climate change based on the realities of the Arab region, and the creation of a centre for protecting the environment from war remnants, to support countries affected by armed conflict in clearing mines and hazardous remnants.

In the realm of security and stability, Iraq proposed establishing a regional centre for counter-terrorism and prevention of violent extremism, headquartered in Baghdad, with dedicated funding. The initiative also called for creating a joint Arab security coordination chamber to unify strategic approaches to regional security threats.

Additional security proposals included two new centres focused on combating drug trafficking and organised crime, highlighting the urgency of boosting Arab capabilities to address cross-border threats.

The declaration also welcomed a proposal to enhance cooperation with the Middle East and North Africa Financial Action Task Force (MENAFATF) to combat money laundering, terrorism financing, and illicit financial activities.

In cultural and social areas, Iraq called for the establishment of an Arab Council for cultural and popular dialogue to strengthen mutual understanding among Arab peoples and foster closer ties.

Other initiatives included a proposal to provide safe havens for victims of disasters and conflicts, and a fund to support housing and reconstruction projects in affected areas, aimed at improving housing security in regions impacted by crises.