The Central Bank of Iraq used a financial inclusion conference at the University of Duhok to restate its policy focus on widening access to formal financial services and accelerating the shift to electronic payments. Governor Ali Mohsen Al-Allaq linked greater inclusion to sustainable economic and social development, including promoting social justice and strengthening trust between citizens and financial institutions. The remarks positioned the National Strategy for Financial Inclusion 2025–2029 as the framework for expanding the base of financial services users, empowering women and youth, and supporting the move toward electronic payments. The Central Bank also flagged ongoing work to develop digital payments infrastructure, support financial innovation, and promote financial literacy in cooperation with universities and educational institutions; the conference programme included an exhibition with banking and non-banking institutions and a discussion session on financial inclusion’s interaction with monetary and fiscal policy and the government’s role in improving inclusion indicators and economic stability.
Central Bank of Iraq 2025-10-23
Central Bank of Iraq governor sets out financial inclusion priorities under the 2025–2029 national strategy
The Central Bank of Iraq reaffirmed its commitment to expanding access to formal financial services and electronic payments, emphasizing the National Strategy for Financial Inclusion 2025–2029 as a framework for empowering women and youth. Governor Ali Mohsen Al-Allaq highlighted the link between financial inclusion and sustainable development, with ongoing efforts on digital payments infrastructure, financial innovation, and literacy in collaboration with educational institutions.