The Ministry of Communications of Iraq signed a contract with Qatari Ooredoo Group for the installation of the FIG submarine cable, enhancing internet capacity by over 700 terabytes. The project aims to connect Iraq to Europe via Turkey, bolster the regional telecommunications network, and attract international investments. It is expected to be completed by 2027.
On Thursday, the Ministry of Communications of Iraq signed a significant contract with the Qatari Ooredoo Group for the landing of the FIG submarine cable. Communications Minister Hiyam Al-Yasiri emphasized the commitment to enhancing state revenues through this strategic partnership. This contract represents the establishment of Iraq’s fourth submarine cable, which will significantly improve internet capacity by over 700 terabytes.
The submarine cable, spanning approximately 2,000 kilometers and consisting of 24 pairs of optical fibers, will facilitate connectivity between Iraq and European countries via Turkey. Additionally, it aims to integrate Gulf nations into the global telecommunications network, enhancing international communication routed through Iraq. The project’s completion is anticipated by 2027.
Minister Al-Yasiri remarked that this development is part of a broader initiative to bolster Iraq’s position as a regional corridor connecting the Gulf, Asia, and Europe, leveraging its advantageous geographical location. Further contracts are also anticipated to strengthen Iraq’s standing in this capacity, which is expected to attract international companies and improve both security and economic stability.
Nasser bin Hamad Nasser Al Thani, CEO of the Qatari Ooredoo Group, expressed pride in this new partnership, highlighting the company’s long-term investment intentions in Iraq’s telecommunications sector and submarine cable projects. He noted that the collaborative efforts also extend to partnerships with global firms such as Microsoft and Google, aimed at enhancing the telecommunications infrastructure and investment environment in Iraq.
These initiatives are designed not only to expand services in Iraq beyond traditional telecommunications but also to accommodate advanced technology trends and green light future developments, including data centers and smart solutions leveraging artificial intelligence.
In summary, the contract signed between Iraq’s Ministry of Communications and the Qatari Ooredoo Group marks a pivotal step in improving the nation’s internet infrastructure, fostering economic growth, and positioning Iraq as a crucial player in the regional telecommunications landscape.
The recent signing of the contract between the Ministry of Communications of Iraq and the Qatari Ooredoo Group for the FIG submarine cable represents a strategic advancement in enhancing Iraq’s digital infrastructure. With significant improvements in internet capacity expected, this initiative also aims to solidify Iraq’s role as a communications hub linking Europe with the Gulf and Asia. The partnership stands to attract international investments and encourage the development of advanced digital services, thereby augmenting Iraq’s economy and stability.
Original Source: ina.iq
