Iraqi Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi met with Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe in Tokyo to discuss the reconstruction and sustainable development of Iraq. Abe pledged Japan’s continuing support and a $330 million loan for irrigation and development projects.
After years of war and fierce fighting against militant groups, al-Abadi has declared his desire to shift the national focus to rebuilding. In a press release, both parties also declared goals to reduce unemployment and effectively manage armaments in Iraq. The hope is that these initiatives will allow Iraq to develop peacefully and prevent the resurgence of extremism.
Prime Minister Shinzo Abe was named our 2015 World Leader in Cybersecurity for his efforts to craft a cohesive Japanese cyber security strategy. You can listen to his acceptance speech here.