Deceased Iranian President Raisi was preparing to join Development Road Project

Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia’ Al-Sudani made a critical statement on Sunday regarding Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi, who died in a helicopter crash on May 19.

“Had the helicopter not crashed, the Iranian leader would have signed the ‘Development Road’ agreement. Raisi supported the Development Road Project, and if he had not died, he would have come to Iraq to sign the agreement.”

Sudani stated that Iraq’s mission to be a historical trade route between the East and the West would be revived with the Development Road Project. “The Development Road Project means connecting the East and Europe through the lands of Iraq and Türkiye,” he said.

“We have started dialogues with all neighboring countries, including Iran,” said Sudani.

“In fact, it was decided that agreements on this issue would be signed during the late Iranian President Raisi’s visit to Iraq. Raisi was expected to visit Iraq on the 29th of the month. As you know, Iran is a neighboring country and holds a strategic position. China’s Belt and Road Initiative and the North-South Transport Corridor between Russia, Iran, and Azerbaijan pass through Iran,” he added.