KBE Forum 2023 

The panel titled “Climate Change, Threats for a Stable Economy” brought together experts to discuss the impact of climate change on Iraq and the Kurdistan Region. The key focus areas were water scarcity and the impact of climate change. Throughout the discussion, the panelists emphasized the importance of transitioning towards a green economy, legislative developments in waste management and renewable energy, and the need for cooperation and financial compensation to combat climate change in Iraq and the region.

Dr. Hallo Askari, former Head of the Board of Environment of the KRG and the panel moderator, commenced the session by highlighting the historical significance of Iraq’s marshes. Dating back to 5,000 years ago, these marshes have served as one of the largest lakes in the Middle East, providing essential resources such as fish, livestock, and plants. Moreover, the marshes act as a habitat for numerous migratory birds during the winter season. However, climate change threatens this critical ecosystem, leading to water scarcity, droughts, and desertification, particularly in the southern provinces.

Dr. Jassim Al-Falahi, the Deputy Minister of Environment of Iraq, reiterated the severity of climate change, which extends beyond temperature increase and weather patterns. He stressed that the consequences of climate change affect various aspects of life, including the economy, social well-being, health, security, and politics. One significant impact is water scarcity, leading to droughts and an increased incidence of dust storms in the southern region of Iraq.

The preservation of Iraq’s socio-ecological system, particularly the southern marshlands, is of utmost importance. The marshlands have not only been historically significant but also play a vital role in environmental tourism and the country’s economy. Al-Falahi called for a transition from an oil-dependent economy to a diversified and sustainable green economy. Such a shift would involve promoting smart agriculture, integrated water management, and renewable energy.

In the context of recovery efforts, Al-Falahi acknowledged the displacement of thousands of families due to climate change impacts, leading to environmental refugees. To tackle climate change holistically, he emphasized a national vision and high-level strategy that involves not only the government but also the private sector, civil society organizations, women, and youth. This approach is evident in the development of the national strategy, or the national contribution (INDC), which includes mitigation and reduction efforts in the oil and gas sector, technology transfer in water resources and agriculture, and the implementation of nature-based solutions and renewable energies.

The Iraqi government has been working on reducing the effects of climate change through the national strategy, involving various civil society organizations dedicated to addressing climate change impacts. Al-Falahi stressed the water scarcity crisis in Iraq, connecting it to human rights and the right to life. He advocated for peaceful diplomatic dialogue and high-level negotiations to address water issues and revitalize the Iraqi marshes, thereby improving livelihoods and enhancing resilience in the face of climate change impacts.

The moderator inquired about illegal refineries in Kurdistan and the Ministry of Natural Resources plans to address this issue. Ahmed Mufti, the Deputy Minister of Natural Resources of the KRG, emphasized that climate change is a complex challenge that requires a broader perspective. He highlighted the importance of quantifying and understanding the ecological footprint to gauge the impact of human activities on natural resources. Mufti stressed the significance of collective efforts from the community to combat climate change and reduce its effects.

Regarding illegal refineries and pollution, Mufti explained that climate change in Kurdistan is not solely linked to refineries but involves multiple factors. Kurdistan primarily relies on clean energy sources, with 90% of its energy coming from gas, which is cleaner than oil. Addressing transportation inefficiencies and promoting behavioral changes among citizens could significantly mitigate the effects of climate change.

Kurdistan possesses various natural resources, including metals, but careful administration and learning from other countries’ experiences are necessary to ensure sustainable utilization. Strong laws and policies are crucial to overcoming challenges and ensuring sustainable development, considering the impact of climate change.

Abdulrahman Siddiq, the Head of the Board of Environment of the KRG, emphasized the difference between awareness and education, stating that awareness is “the moment when people feel concerned about an unfavorable situation.” The Board of Environment has an office dedicated to environmental awareness and announcements, divided into public awareness and educational awareness. Several partners, including the Ministry of Education and the Ministry of Higher Education, are involved in environmental education initiatives.

Regarding waste management, Siddiq discussed the Board of Environment’s efforts, highlighting nearly 100 “Green Investment” projects prepared along with a committee. The Ministry of Municipalities and Tourism takes primary responsibility for waste management, but public awareness and action are also crucial. Legislation regarding waste management and renewable energy is seen as important steps towards sustainability and attracting private sector investment.

The issue of gas flaring in Iraq was a significant topic of discussion during the panel. Dr. Falah Al-Ameri discussed the historical context of gas burning, which dates back to the 1980s, particularly during wars and sieges. The increase in oil production led to a significant increase in associated gas production. However, Iraq has made progress in reducing gas burning over the years, with plans to stop gas flaring completely by 2026. Economic considerations and viable commercial solutions are essential to achieving this goal.

Ahmed Mufti added that the actual figure of gas flaring in Iraq is even higher than officially reported, and it poses a serious environmental impact. Addressing gas flaring can yield significant positive outcomes and aligns with global environmental demands and regional agreements to mitigate climate change. Mufti called for policy-making that prioritizes the reduction of gas flaring, involving collaboration between the government, the private sector, and the community.

Dr. Jassim Al-Falahi addressed the efforts of the Iraqi government in reducing emissions in the oil and gas sector while protecting this critical sector. The national contribution document played a significant role in shaping the direction toward emission reduction and gas utilization. Iraq is the second-largest contributor to gas burning after Russia, but the government is committed to addressing this classification by adhering to international standards and harnessing the economic potential associated with carbon dioxide utilization.

The panel also discussed the significance of the Paris Agreement and the efforts made during the COP21 conference to combat climate change. Al-Falahi emphasized the concept of common but differentiated responsibility, recognizing that developed countries bear a greater historical responsibility for climate change due to centuries of industrial activity. Iraq and the Kurdistan region face significant impacts from climate change, including droughts, reduced rainfall, and extreme weather events, making financial compensation crucial.

International water issues were also addressed, acknowledging that 92% of Iraq’s water comes from bordering countries. Al-Falahi stressed the importance of diplomatic negotiations and financial assistance from entities like the Green Climate Fund to address water scarcity and its impact on Iraq and the region.

Regarding the utilization of renewable energy sources, Ahmed Mufti highlighted the need for infrastructure development for gas and solar energy utilization. Transitioning to renewable energy requires time and effort, but Kurdistan is already a significant gas producer, with approximately 1 billion cubic feet of gas production used for energy. He emphasized the potential benefits of utilizing solar energy in Kurdistan’s warm climate and suggested promoting behavioral changes, such as using LPG for vehicles instead of gasoline.

Dr. Falah Al-Ameri discussed the challenges of improving gasoline quality in Iraq and emphasized the importance of cleaner fuels to address environmental and health concerns. He called for a shift towards cleaner fuels like gas and improving the quality of gasoline to reduce emissions and health risks associated with lower-quality gasoline.

In conclusion, the panelists emphasized the urgency of addressing climate change in Iraq and the Kurdistan Region. They highlighted the importance of a transition towards a green economy, legislative developments in waste management and renewable energy, and international cooperation to combat climate change. The panel served as a platform to raise awareness and call for action in mitigating the impact of climate change on Iraq and the region.

“The Hidden Paradise, Tourism in Kurdistan Region” was a panel that brought together experts and officials to discuss the challenges and opportunities in the tourism sector of Kurdistan. Moderated by Ruwaydah Mustafa, the panelists were Dr. Mohammad Shukri, Head of the Board of Investment of the KRG; Ahmed Al-Dhahiri, the UAE Consul General; and Amal Jalal, the Head of the Board of Tourism of the KRG.

“The Hidden Paradise, Tourism in Kurdistan Region” was a panel that brought together experts and officials to discuss the challenges and opportunities in the tourism sector of Kurdistan. Moderated by Ruwaydah Mustafa, the panelists were Dr. Mohammad Shukri Head of the Board of Investment of the KRG; Ahmed Al-Dhahiri, the UAE Consul General; and Amal Jalal, the Head of the Board of Tourism of the KRG.

Dr. Mohammad Shukri commenced the discussions by highlighting the strategies implemented by the Board of Investment to promote tourism in the region and attract foreign investment. The Invest Kurdistan logo, designed to attract foreign investors, operates under the direct supervision of the Prime Minister. Dr. Shukri emphasized the importance of providing investors with seamless processes and information, and to achieve this, the invest.gov.krd website was launched. The platform offers relevant details for electronic registration of investors to obtain their investment permits efficiently.

A notable aspect of the panel was the ongoing collaboration between the Board of Investment and the Board of Tourism, resulting in a comprehensive Tourism Investment Roadmap. This roadmap outlines 67 strategic projects aimed at enhancing the tourism sector in Kurdistan. The strategy encompasses various aspects, including streamlining visitor entrance at border checkpoints and developing touristic sites that cater to visitors, particularly from the UAE.

Creating suitable tourist compounds emerged as a key focus for attracting affluent visitors from Gulf countries. Dr. Shukri emphasized that Kurdistan offers a suitable environment for Gulf citizens to live in, own assets, and visit as tourists, contrary to concerns about Arabization. Encouraging affluent visitors to spend in Kurdistan would have a direct impact on the region’s revenue and stimulate further improvements in the tourism sector.

Dr. Shukri highlighted the need to move beyond relying solely on domestic tourists from within Iraq, focusing instead on attracting affluent international visitors. By doing so, the region can increase revenue and incentivize the government to enhance the quality and standards of the tourism sector. “Projects like Korek Mountain, an attractive destination for affluent tourists, play a crucial role in this regard.” Said Dr. Mohammed.

Ahmed Al-Dhahiri, drawing from the UAE’s successful experience in tourism, provided valuable insights and lessons for the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG). He commended the KRG’s efforts and willingness to provide services to all investors, highlighting the interconnected nature of tourism and investment.

The UAE’s journey towards becoming a successful tourism destination began in 1971 when the country prioritized development and investment across various sectors. From the 1990s, the UAE shifted its focus to global tourism, becoming one of the most important destinations in the Middle East and the world. The UAE currently holds a prominent position, ranking 19th in the world for tourism, and 17th when considering Saudi Arabia for 2020-2023.

Al-Dhahiri emphasized that tourism has become a key pillar for any advanced country’s local product. He drew attention to the significance of building dams to strengthen the tourism sector, especially in terms of investment. “Water resources and conservation play a vital role in the success of renewable energy, agriculture, and tourism sectors.” Said Al-Dhahiri.

Infrastructure development was identified as a pivotal factor in the UAE’s tourism success, enabling the country to host large international conferences and attract international investments. Al-Dhahiri stressed the importance of investing in infrastructure to enhance Kurdistan’s tourism potential. The development of historical areas and museums, such as the Barzan Museum in cities like Erbil, Suleimaniyah, and Dohuk, was highlighted as a crucial aspect of enhancing the region’s appeal for tourists.

Mrs. Amal Jalal provided comprehensive insights into the significant advancements made in Kurdistan’s tourism sector. She highlighted the diverse attractions that the region has to offer, including religious heritage sites, historic places, therapeutic tourism, extreme sports, arts, and culture. This diverse range of attractions caters to the preferences of different types of tourists and makes Kurdistan an appealing destination for various travel purposes.

Jalal emphasized that tourism is not solely an economic dimension; rather, it also holds political, cultural, and national identity significance for Kurdistan. In achieving success in tourism, she stressed the importance of collective responsibility from all government ministries and facilities to improve infrastructure and services.

“To further support the development of tourism in Kurdistan, the Board of Tourism has developed guidelines for various tourism activities and is currently working on a roadmap for reform. This roadmap, developed in collaboration with the UNDP and USAID, aims to address the development of tourism infrastructure.” Said Jalal. However, she candidly acknowledged the need to improve the quality of services and infrastructure in Kurdistan, including roads and various activities, to enhance the region’s competitiveness as a tourist destination.

Amal Jalal also highlighted the importance of marketing and the need for customized and interesting content to attract tourists. While media facilities have assisted in promoting the region, there is room for improvement in this area. Additionally, she stressed the need for education and training to produce skilled graduates who can effectively contribute to the tourism sector.

The panel also addressed the crucial issue of climate change and its impact on tourism. Jalal stated that the Board of Tourism is actively collaborating with relevant ministries to address the challenges posed by environmental changes. Measures include increasing the green belt, preserving and maintaining dams, and promoting the use of eco-friendly materials in construction.

In response to a question raised by a member of the audience regarding youth participation, Ahmed Al-Dhahiri acknowledged the significance of youth participation in the tourism sector and praised the youth’s potential in the Kurdistan Region. He highlighted that the region is of great importance, and the UAE is committed to promoting and supporting the future generation. The UAE has ongoing projects aimed at uniting youth through programs and private meetings across all provinces, intending to cultivate and develop their leadership skills. Cooperation between the UAE and the youth of Iraq and the Kurdistan Region in joint programs is a crucial part of this endeavour.

Dr. Shukri recognized the crucial role of youth in shaping the future of the Kurdistan Region. He emphasized their proficiency in linguistics, social media, self-improvement, and research. “The youth’s command of English and access to advanced technologies are seen as great assets for Kurdistan’s future prosperity and progress, particularly in the tourism and investment sectors.” He said.

The panel concluded with Amal Jalal providing a final statement, emphasizing the significance of attracting tourists from diverse regions to Kurdistan. She highlighted the 67 projects spread across all provinces in Kurdistan, intended to encourage further investment in the region’s tourism sector.

Looking towards the future, Jalal presented an ambitious goal to welcome 20 million tourists by 2030, a substantial increase from the current numbers. She underscored that achieving advancements in tourism will benefit not only the government but also the workers and people of Kurdistan.

In conclusion, the panelists provided valuable insights into effective strategies for promoting tourism, attracting investment, and harnessing the potential of youth in Kurdistan’s tourism sector. Emphasizing infrastructure development, marketing, education, and sustainable practices will lead to a thriving and attractive tourist destination. The panel discussions shed light on the immense potential of Kurdistan as a hidden paradise waiting to be explored by global tourists.

The panel titled “The Food Basket of Iraq, Agriculture in KRI” brought together experts, policymakers, and stakeholders to address critical issues concerning agricultural development, water scarcity, and food security in Kurdistan. With a growing population and increasing climate challenges, ensuring sustainable agricultural practices and securing the region’s food supply have become pressing concerns.

Dr Dara Jameel, Advisor at the Council of Ministers, moderated the panel discussion. He initiated the dialogue by addressing Kamal Muslim, Minister of Trade and Industry of the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG). Dr Jameel underscored the urgency of addressing water security, water scarcity, and the challenges in agricultural development amid global warming and climate change. He particularly inquired about the difficulties faced by farmers in receiving payment for their wheat and the steps taken to resolve these issues.

Muslim acknowledged the problems faced by the Ministry and farmers in receiving payment for their wheat. He revealed that before 2014, there were no significant issues with payments. However, in the years 2014, 2015, and 2016, Baghdad failed to pay a considerable amount owed for the wheat supplied by Kurdistan farmers. After intense negotiations, the owed money was eventually obtained. Muslim noted that the problem persisted as Baghdad did not take all the wheat produced by Kurdistan farmers, unlike other regions in Iraq. Baghdad cited excuses for this, which Muslim deemed to be untrue. Last year, due to drought conditions, Baghdad took all the wheat from Kurdistan farmers. This year, early efforts were made to persuade the Iraqi government to take all the wheat again, but a recent meeting indicated that only a small fraction of the produced wheat (375,000 tons) would be accepted, despite larger yields due to favourable conditions.

Regarding the money owed to farmers, Muslim clarified that the federal government no longer owes any money for previous years. All payments from 2014 to 2016 have been settled. This year, farmers will receive 850,000 IQD for every ton of wheat, the same payment rate as in other parts of Iraq.

The moderator then directed a question to Abdulkarem Sleman, Deputy Minister of Agriculture of the KRG. He inquired about the quantity of wheat produced in Kurdistan, the region’s self-sufficiency, and the surplus wheat yield over the last three years, excluding the impact of drought.

Sleman acknowledged the importance of accurate data on this matter. According to their data, the Kurdistan region’s annual wheat consumption stands at approximately 700,000 to 750,000 tons. In contrast, Kurdistan’s wheat production surpasses one million tons annually.

The panelists’ responses highlighted that Kurdistan has been producing a surplus of wheat over the past three years, even without accounting for the impact of drought. This signifies a significant level of wheat productivity in the region, which can potentially contribute to addressing the challenges related to wheat scarcity and food security.

The moderator addressed Dr. Salah Elhajjhassan, the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) Representative in Iraq, and inquired about the role of FAO in addressing the issue of food security in Iraq and Kurdistan. Dr Jameel acknowledged the various challenges faced in the region, including conflicts, water shortages, and climate change, and asked how FAO could contribute to ensuring food security and providing reassurance to farmers and the public.

Dr. Elhajjhassan emphasized the significance of using resources efficiently and the need for innovative solutions to address climate change and its impact on food security. Dr. Elhajjhassan noted that the issue of food security cannot be viewed in isolation and necessitates international cooperation and comprehensive approaches involving various stakeholders, including ministries, institutions, private sectors, farmers, and consumers.

Regarding the role of FAO, Dr. Elhajjhassan highlighted the importance of adopting new technologies and modern agricultural practices, particularly in light of climate change. He stressed the significance of empowering the human element through training and awareness, especially for women and youth who are most affected by climate change. He also emphasized the essential role of trade in ensuring food security, as many countries in the region heavily rely on food imports. Dr Elhajjhassan mentioned the potential to increase wheat productivity in Iraq by adopting better practices, training farmers, and investing in research.

The moderator then moved to Jort Posthumus, the Deputy Consul General of the Netherlands, asking for his advice on developing policies to address food security and water scarcity in the region. Dr Jameel acknowledged the challenges faced and sought insights from Posthumus on prioritizing actions to be taken.

Posthumus acknowledged that many important points had been addressed by previous panelists. He emphasized the significance of developing a strategy for agriculture with a focus on climate-smart agricultural systems, water management, and the development of value chains. He also highlighted the importance of marketing and making better use of the regional market, rather than relying heavily on imports.

Posthumus stressed the role of the private sector and new technologies in driving innovation and growth in agriculture. He mentioned that in the Netherlands, the private sector played a crucial role in introducing new techniques and technologies. However, he also emphasized the government’s responsibility in creating an ecosystem that facilitates growth and supports the adoption of new techniques. Posthumus praised the current government in the Kurdistan region for being on the right track and contributing to the drafting of an agricultural policy paper that addresses key areas such as value chain development, water management, and marketing.

Regarding food security and the food rations given to Kurdistan’s residents, Kamal Muslim provided insights into the food rations distribution system. He stated that nearly 5,300,000 people in Kurdistan receive food rations from the government, including 9kg of flour, 3kg of rice, 1kg of sugar, chickpeas, tea, and other essentials. He acknowledged that the food rations play a significant role in providing citizens with a sense of contentment and covering some of their basic food needs. Moreover, he highlighted that the distribution of food rations also has a positive impact on the market by lowering food prices, even for those who do not receive the rations.

However, Muslim distinguished between the current provision of food rations and the concept of true food security. He emphasized that while the food rations contribute to citizens’ well-being and market stabilization, they do not fully represent food security as he defines it. In his view, true food security is achieved when a country can source all its basic food needs from within its borders, with minimal reliance on imports.

Muslim aligned with Dr. Elhajjhassan viewpoint that food security is a multidimensional issue that involves the collaboration of all government ministries. While the Ministry of Trade manages the distribution of food rations, Muslim acknowledged that achieving food security requires efforts from various sectors, including agriculture, trade, and other related fields.

In response to Dr Jameel’s question about water scarcity and the steps taken by the ministry to address the issue, Abdulkarim Sleman explained that while the responsibility for water scarcity lies with the Ministry of Municipalities, the overall management of water resources in Iraq falls under their ministry’s purview.

Sleman mentioned that Iraq has four sources of water: rainwater, river water, underground water, and seawater. He went on to highlight the collaboration between his ministry and the Ministry of Water Resources of Iraq in constructing four important dams in Kurdistan. These dams include the Bakur Dam in Duhok, the Mandawa Dam in Erbil, and two other dams in Qaladze and Taqtaq. He emphasized the significance of these dams in mitigating the effects of drought, water scarcity, and climate change in the region.

Sleman further discussed the progress made on two crucial dams: the Khns Dam, which already has water collected in it, and the Diwana Dam located near Darbandikhan. Additionally, he mentioned the near completion of two other dams, which are more than 90% finished with construction. These projects play a vital role in combatting water scarcity in the region.

When asked about the responsibility for filtering ‘heavy water,’ Sleman clarified that it falls under the jurisdiction of the Ministry of Municipalities. Nonetheless, he emphasized that efforts have been made in Erbil to improve water filtering processes. The ministry has sought to learn from other countries with advanced water filtering systems through various visits and exchanges.

When addressing the Ministry of Trade and Industry’s policies and roadmaps for providing job opportunities across the region and whether the placement of factories aligns with the corresponding local products, Muslim responded by stating that the ministry has worked to create geographic diversity for job opportunities across Kurdistan. They collaborated with the Board of Investment to disperse opportunities from Zakho to Kfri, ensuring that job prospects are available in various areas of the region.

Regarding food factories, Muslim explained that they strategically build factories in locations with an abundance of specific agricultural products. For instance, juice factories are established in regions known for their surplus of grapes, while olive factories are located in areas with a high production of olives. This approach ensures that the factories can efficiently utilize the available local produce.

Jort Posthumus responded positively to the idea of hydroponic production in the region. He highlighted the benefits of this technique, including its efficient water usage, which can save up to 90% of water compared to traditional irrigation methods. He also pointed out that hydroponics can lead to increased yields and requires less space, making it a relevant option for agricultural development in Kurdistan.

Posthumus emphasized the importance of public-private partnerships (PPP) as a mechanism for introducing such techniques. PPPs involve a combination of government investment and private sector involvement, making it possible to kickstart the adoption of hydroponic and other efficient water irrigation techniques in the region.

In conclusion, the panel discussion shed light on the various aspects of agriculture and food security in Kurdistan. The region’s surplus wheat production, the potential for hydroponic agriculture, and the strategic placement of food factories underscore the opportunities for further growth and development. Moreover, the collaborative efforts between government entities, international organizations like the FAO, and private sectors are crucial in ensuring sustainable agricultural practices and securing the region’s food basket in the face of climate change and water scarcity challenges.