The Prime Minister of the Kurdistan Region, Masrour Barzani, announced today, Sunday, the launch of the second phase of the Green Belt project in Erbil, which includes planting more than 1.8 million saplings over an area of about 10,000 dunams, with the aim of expanding green spaces and improving the environmental situation in the region.
Barzani stated during the launching ceremony of the project's second phase, in a statement followed by the News Video Agency, that "this step extends the efforts aimed at greening the surroundings of Erbil city," stressing the continuation of work in planting trees and establishing forests, and taking necessary measures to contribute to climate improvement and environmental protection.
He clarified that the project is not limited to environmental aspects only, but also carries economic and service dimensions, as it contributes to improving air quality and providing suitable places for citizens to rest, as well as creating job opportunities and benefiting from fruit-bearing trees in food production, and the possibility of establishing factories for olive oil production.
Barzani noted that the second phase will witness the planting of an additional 1.8 million saplings, with the participation of the Peshmerga forces and volunteers, praising their efforts and participation in implementing the project, considering that this participation reflects the spirit of nationalism and dedication to the people and the homeland.
He confirmed that planting trees and establishing forests will have a positive impact on climate and the environment in Kurdistan, emphasizing the need to continue environmental projects and not allow obstacles that negatively affect the environment and green spaces.
Regarding air quality, Barzani pointed out that Erbil city previously suffered from air pollution due to smoke emissions from household generators, explaining that the implementation of several projects, foremost among them the Ronaki project to provide electricity around the clock, has significantly contributed to improving the atmosphere in Erbil and the cities of the region. He added that expanding green spaces in Kurdish cities and towns represents an important step to protect the environment and maintain the health of citizens.
In another context, the region's prime minister addressed the assaults targeting infrastructure in Kurdistan, indicating that attempts to cut forests and target vital facilities aim to harm the pillars of life and infrastructure that provide services to citizens.
He described the attack on the Kormor field and the targeting of the electricity sector's infrastructure as a crime against all the people of the Kurdistan Region and Iraq, stressing that targeting facilities that provide electricity to citizens is unacceptable.
Barzani called on the special committee tasked with investigating the attack to expedite the announcement of investigation results, reveal the perpetrators and the entities behind them, and refer them to the judiciary to receive their legal punishment. He also confirmed the readiness of the regional government to provide all necessary support to ensure the success of the investigations and continue coordination and communication with the federal government regarding this file.