[26/02/2025 12:26]

WASHINGTON-SABA
The World Bank (WB) has approved a new $18.5 million project to support the Government of Iraq's efforts to reduce environmental and health risks from persistent organic pollutants and chemical pollution hotspots as well as improve livelihoods in local communities.

The bank said in a statement that "the Global Environment Fund will contribute to the financing of the project through a grant of $13.49 million and the Reform, Recovery and Reconstruction Fund for Iraq will contribute to its financing with a grant of $5 million."

The statement added "The project aims to treat about 4,000 tons of persistent organic pollutants and hazardous chemicals, as well as help develop policies and controls for the management of hazardous chemicals and establish an information system to manage chemical monitoring and follow-up activities in Iraq, where successive conflicts in the past have significantly polluted Iraq's oil and industrial assets".

For his part, Regional Director for the Middle East at the WB Jean Carré confirmed the Bank's commitment to supporting the development program in Iraq and helping it address environmental challenges.

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