Message from the Chief Representative

Since April 2026, I have been serving as the Chief Representative of the JICA Iraq Office.

【JICA’s Engagement with Iraq】
JICA’s cooperation with Iraq dates back to 2003, when the Government of Japan pledged a total of USD 5 billion in assistance at the International Conference on Reconstruction Assistance to Iraq held in Madrid, Spain. Since then, Japan has been working together with Iraq in its efforts toward reconstruction and development over many years.

Initially, cooperation began with human resource development through training programs conducted in Japan and neighboring countries. Subsequently, in 2008, Iraq’s first yen loan projects were launched, supporting Iraq’s efforts to rebuild and develop key economic infrastructure such as energy, roads, and ports, as well as essential services including water supply and sanitation, a hospital, and irrigation facilities. Through these joint efforts, JICA has contributed to strengthening Iraq’s economic and social foundations.

To date, more than 10,000 participants have benefited from these training programs, while yen loan projects have reached a total of 36, amounting to approximately JPY 1.3 trillion (equivalent to around USD 10 billion). Moreover, in 2021, JICA provided its first non-sovereign loan to the private sector in Iraq, supporting investment in a new terminal at Umm Qasr Port, the country’s largest commercial port. Operations at the site have already commenced. These efforts are steadily bearing fruit as a foundation for Iraq’s sustainable development.

Along with the dedication of many individuals in both Iraq and Japan, JICA established a field office in 2009 and later upgraded it to a full office in 2011. This year marks the 15th anniversary of the office’s establishment. Building on the trust that has been fostered over the years, we will continue to work in close partnership with Iraq and advance cooperation rooted in the local context.