Iraq's PM al-Zaydi opens 17th Agriculture Week, pledges sector support

BAGHDAD, Iraq — Iraqi Prime Minister Ali Falih al-Zaydi on Saturday opened the 17th Agriculture Week, announcing a series of government initiatives aimed at supporting the country's farming sector. In remarks at the event, al-Zaydi said the measures would seek to increase agricultural output and strengthen rural development. He stressed the sector's role in the national economy and said support programs for farmers would be expanded. According to the announcement, the initiatives are also expected to help create new employment opportunities in agriculture for young people. The weeklong program will include exhibitions and technical sessions bringing together agricultural firms, farmers and relevant government agencies. The government said cooperation with sector stakeholders would continue as part of its broader strategy to boost local production and reinforce food security. No further details on the specific initiatives or their timeline were immediately available.