Baghdad, Iraq, 15th April 18, 2020: Iraq Energy Institute (IEI), an independent non-profit policy institute and the German Liaison Office for Industry and Commerce in Iraq (AHK) an organisation mandated by the German Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy to promote bilateral trade between Germany and Iraq have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). This agreement has the aim of building local capacities, strengthening professional education initiatives and cooperating on projects benefiting Iraq’s citizens and its private sector.
With these aims in mind, Oliver Oehms, Delegate of German Industry and Commerce to Iraq, summarised the importance of this MoU. He explains:
“Reliable supply of energy is critical for the economic and social development of Iraq. German industry supports the joint efforts of the Iraqi government and the private sector. This is why we embark on this partnership.”
From the Iraqi perspective Yesar Al-Maleki, IEI’s Managing Director, expressed confidence that the cooperation agreement will build on a number of existing and historic links between Germany and Iraq, particularly in light of Germany’s pioneering efforts in renewable energy:
“Germany is an important trade and technology partner for Iraq. Iraqis can learn tremendously from German post-war reconstruction efforts. At the Institute, we look forward to acting as a bridge between German know-how, qualifications, and policies and Iraq’s needs, especially sustainable energy and environment.”
Focusing on technology migration, the MoU will cover a range of energy-related solutions to Iraq’s challenges, from fostering circular economic growth to enhancing renewable energy opportunities as well as clean, sustainable developments for the environment, water and wastewater.
The MoU was signed by Oliver Oehms, delegate of German Industry and Commerce to Iraq and Nisrin Khalil, AHK Iraq’s director, in addition to Yesar Al-Maleki, representing IEI. Iraq Energy Institute welcomed AHK Iraq as a partner to its upcoming flagship event; the 6th Iraq Energy Forum. Both parties look forward to long-term cooperation of mutual benefit.
