The Iraqi Ministry of Communications signed a contract with Qatar’s Ooredoo Group for the FIG submarine cable. This project aims to improve Iraq’s internet capacity significantly, connecting it with Europe and Gulf nations, and is expected to be completed by 2027. Minister Hiyam Al-Yasiri highlighted the initiative’s potential to enhance state revenues and international communication links.
The Ministry of Communications in Iraq has officially signed a contract with the Qatari Ooredoo Group for the establishment of the FIG submarine cable. The agreement, publicized by Minister Hiyam Al-Yasiri, focuses on enhancing state revenues and internet capacity within Iraq.
Al-Yasiri emphasized that this contract represents the installation of Iraq’s fourth submarine cable, which is 2,000 kilometers long and equipped with 24 pairs of optical fibers. It aims to increase Iraq’s internet capacity by over 700 terabytes and facilitate connectivity with Europe via Turkey, while linking Gulf nations to global telecommunications networks. The project is slated for completion by 2027.
This initiative follows a series of previous agreements and is part of broader plans to position Iraq as a crucial regional corridor interlinking the Gulf, Asia, and Europe. Al-Yasiri highlighted the significance of these developments in maximizing state revenue and promoting both security and economic stability through attracting international corporations.
Nasser bin Hamad Nasser Al Thani, the CEO of Qatari Ooredoo Group, also expressed pride in this partnership with Iraq. He noted that the contract illustrates Ooredoo’s commitment to enhancing their service portfolio and confidence in the Iraqi market. Ooredoo Group has established long-term investments across Iraq’s telecommunications and submarine cable sectors.
Al Thani recognized Iraq’s strategic position, which connects East and West, granting the nation a competitive edge in telecommunications and digital infrastructure. He further mentioned that this partnership extends beyond submarine cables, involving collaborations with global firms like Microsoft and Google to augment Iraq’s investment environment and elevate service quality.
The signing of the FIG submarine cable contract represents a significant step forward for Iraq’s telecommunications sector. It aims to enhance internet capacity and link Iraq more closely to Europe and Gulf countries. This strategic project not only seeks to boost state revenues but also reinforces Iraq’s role as a pivotal regional telecommunications hub, attracting major international investments and fostering economic stability.
Original Source: ina.iq
