The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) office in Iraq have renewed their long-standing partnership to enhance social and economic development in Iraq through funding from the Japanese government and JICA.

This partnership, which spans over fifteen years of cooperation with the Iraqi government, reflects the strong commitment of UNDP and the Government of Japan/JICA to meet Iraq's need for essential services and effective, stable, and reliable economic infrastructure, according to a JICA report.

The report added that this partnership has significantly contributed to human and economic growth in Iraq, in line with Iraq's national development plans and programs focusing on economic diversification, infrastructure modernization, and social service improvement.

To support reconstruction and development, Iraq has received 36 official development assistance loans from the Japanese government and JICA, totaling approximately $11 billion. These include 34 loans for vital sector projects and two for development policy.

These development aids aim to support Iraq in achieving its sustainable development goals, focusing on improving living conditions nationwide and restoring infrastructure to promote inclusive growth.

Hiroshi Suzuki, JICA's chief representative in Iraq, said, "JICA remains committed to addressing development challenges with the Iraqi government through this impactful partnership with UNDP. This partnership provides comprehensive support for Iraqi officials to meet international project management standards, combining technical expertise, capacity building, and development financing. All of this aims to improve livelihoods and promote sustainable development in the country.

Under this renewed partnership agreement and in line with Iraq's National Development Plan 2024-2028, UNDP will continue to provide crucial support to the Iraqi government to facilitate the smooth implementation of key social and economic projects funded by JICA's official development assistance loans. This support includes high-level coordination, fiduciary oversight, progress monitoring, technical assistance, knowledge sharing, and capacity building. Additionally, by enhancing transparency, accountability, and adherence to international standards, the partnership ensures the successful implementation of these vital projects.

UNDP Resident Representative in Iraq, Aoki Lutsma, stated, "This renewed partnership between UNDP and JICA underscores our shared commitment to supporting Iraq's development goals, focusing on infrastructure development, sustainable economic growth, and human capital. Together, we aim to facilitate the successful implementation of critical projects that will not only rebuild Iraq's infrastructure but also enhance long-term socio-economic resilience and improve the lives of Iraqis across the country.

This unique and renewed partnership highlights the advantages of effective trilateral cooperation in promoting prosperity, driving sustainable growth, and improving service delivery and infrastructure for a stable and prosperous Iraq. It also emphasizes strong ownership by the Iraqi government and serves as a model for impactful and sustainable partnerships that can contribute to Iraq's long-term development.