Wadee Al Handal Attends Al-Saray Street Opening as Part of Downtown Baghdad's Second Phase

Baghdad, June 23, 2024 – Wadee Al Handal, Chairman of Al Handal International Group and President of the Iraqi Private Banks League, participated in the inauguration of Al-Saray Street under the patronage of Prime Minister Mohammed Shia' Al-Sudani. This event marked the launch of the second phase of the Downtown Baghdad rehabilitation project. Notable attendees included Mr. Ali Mohsen Al-Alaq, Governor of the Central Bank of Iraq; Mr. Abdul-Muttalib Ali Al-Alawi, Governor of Baghdad; Mr. Ammar Musa Kadhim, Mayor of Baghdad; along with other esteemed officials.

Prime Minister Al-Sudani confirmed the continuation of the five-phase project aimed at revitalizing Baghdad's historic heart. This phase includes the rehabilitation of the Saray-Qushla axis towards Al-Maidan Square, restoring heritage building facades, upgrading infrastructure, and creating cultural and recreational walking areas. Al-Saray Square has also been established with new street furnishings and lighting.

Al-Sudani emphasized that the project was executed by Iraqi hands, underscoring its importance to Baghdad's political, cultural, and social heritage. He highlighted the government’s commitment to enhancing the city's national and historical identity.

Wadee Al Handal highlighted the significance of the event, noting that the "Downtown Baghdad" initiative, led by the Iraqi Private Banks League in collaboration with the Baghdad Municipality and funded by the Tamkeen Fund, aims to transform Baghdad into a vibrant cultural and tourist destination. The project is expected to boost tourism, create jobs, and improve the quality of life for local residents.

The Prime Minister praised the collaboration of the Baghdad Municipality, relevant ministries, endowments offices, the Central Bank of Iraq, and the Iraqi Private Banks League. He announced the commencement of the third phase, aiming to provide Baghdad with a renewed image that honors its history and global reputation.