The Iraqi Ministry of Communications announced on Saturday that preparations are underway to begin laying the “Pearl” submarine cable in the Faw region, confirming that all contractual procedures have been finalized and that no major obstacles have emerged thus far.

The Ministry’s Technical Undersecretary, Baraq Abdul Qadir, stated that the seven submarine cable projects currently in progress involve complex and multi-stage procedures. These include conducting comprehensive seabed surveys, contracting with a limited number of specialized international companies, and leasing dedicated vessels equipped for submarine cable installation. As a result, he noted, implementation timelines for such projects are longer than those of conventional infrastructure initiatives.

He added that the Pearl Cable project is among those closest to execution, with installation expected to commence soon in Faw. All project contracts have been completed, and the initiative has now entered the preparatory construction and implementation phase.

Abdul Qadir further explained that close coordination is ongoing with the Ministry of Transport regarding activities linked to the Grand Faw Port and related fiber optic infrastructure. The aim is to prevent route overlaps or technical conflicts while ensuring compliance with regulatory and engineering standards.

He emphasized that work is progressing smoothly, with no significant conflicts recorded to date, reflecting effective cooperation and joint planning among the relevant authorities.