The Iraqi government is in the final stages of issuing satellite internet licenses, with discussions held in Baghdad with a delegation from SpaceX regarding its Starlink service. The high-level meeting signifies a major step towards enhancing Iraq’s digital infrastructure and connectivity nationwide.
Prime Minister Mohammed Shiaa Al-Sudani received the SpaceX delegation in the presence of US Chargé d’Affaires Joshua Harris. The talks focused on licensing procedures, potential areas for cooperation in communications services, and the planned coverage areas for the Starlink network in Iraq.
A Strategic Push for Digital Transformation
Prime Minister Al-Sudani emphasized that Iraq is actively attracting a wider range of international technology companies. This initiative is supported by robust government efforts to provide the necessary infrastructure required to deploy advanced systems like satellite internet.
The Prime Minister highlighted that the telecommunications sector remains a strategic priority for his government, viewing it as a critical component of the nation’s development and modernization plans.
Digital Sovereignty and National Talent
Alongside technological advancement, the government is focused on protecting Iraq’s digital sovereignty. A key part of this strategy involves building national capabilities by investing in and training specialised Iraqi youth to assume future leadership roles within the burgeoning tech sector. This approach aims to ensure that the benefits of digital transformation are sustainable and locally driven.
Starlink’s Operational Readiness
The Starlink delegation affirmed its readiness to commence operations in Iraq shortly after receiving the formal license. The company expressed its commitment to supporting the country’s digital transformation goals and expanding service availability to underserved areas, potentially revolutionizing internet access for businesses and consumers across the nation.
About SpaceX
Founded by Elon Musk, SpaceX designs, manufactures, and launches advanced rockets and spacecraft. The company’s Starlink initiative aims to provide high-speed, low-latency broadband internet in locations where access has been unreliable, expensive, or completely unavailable by deploying a large constellation of satellites in low Earth orbit.
Source: Iraq Business News
