Wadee Al Handal Underscores the Role of Private Banks at the Iraqi Banking Sector Reform Conference

Mr. Wadee Al Handal, Chairman of Al Handal International Group and President of the Iraqi Private Banks League, delivered a keynote address at the Iraqi Banking Sector Reform Conference, inaugurated by Prime Minister Mohammed Shia’ Al-Sudani and attended by the Governor of the Central Bank of Iraq, Dr. Ali Al-Alaq.

Held on April 7, 2025, the conference brought together key figures from the public and private sectors to discuss the future of Iraq’s financial landscape.

In his speech, Mr. Al Handal commended the Iraqi government’s commitment to sustainable economic growth and highlighted the Central Bank’s leadership in driving forward strategic reforms, developed in cooperation with international institutions such as Oliver Wyman.

He described the reform initiative as a turning point in Iraq’s financial transformation and stressed the importance of empowering local banks through improved governance, technology, and oversight.

“Strengthening our banking system is not only a financial necessity—it is a national priority that paves the way for job creation, economic resilience, and global competitiveness,” he stated.

The conference marked a unified effort to modernize Iraq’s banking infrastructure and reaffirmed the sector’s essential role in supporting national development.