ERBIL, Kurdistan Region of Iraq – Iraqi Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi on Saturday proposed an initiative to integrate energy grids, transport networks, and industrial zones among member states of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) during the organization’s 52nd session in Baghdad.

Zaidi inaugurated the session of the OIC Council of Foreign Ministers in the Iraqi capital on Saturday, after assuming the chairmanship from Turkey. The meeting was attended by representatives of all 57 OIC member states, a UN representative, and representatives of 40 international organizations, according to Iraqi state media.

In his address, Zaidi announced that Iraq was proposing an initiative for the “comprehensive integration of energy grids, railway networks, transport systems, and digital communications, as well as the development of digital payment systems, commercial platforms, and the integration of industrial zones."

The initiative aims to establish “security, stability, and prosperity, and to strengthen our collective capacity to confront crises and challenges," Zaidi added.

He also called for free trade and the “assurance of seamless transport across international corridors."

The initiative comes as the US-Iran war has disrupted energy flows through the Strait of Hormuz, a major route for Gulf oil and liquefied natural gas exports. The conflict has also increased shipping risks and costs, disrupted trade routes, and increased volatility in global energy markets. 

The 52nd session was held under the theme "Dialogue and Solidarity: Fundamental Pillars for Promoting Peace and Sustainable Development."

The meeting is set to focus on Palestine and developments in Gaza, regional and international issues, and draft resolutions on political, economic, humanitarian, and development matters, according to the Iraqi foreign ministry. 

Established in 1969, the OIC is the second-largest intergovernmental organization after the UN. It comprises 57 member states across four continents and describes itself as the “collective voice of the Muslim world,” according to its official website.

The organization aims to “safeguard and protect the interests of the Muslim world in the spirit of promoting international peace and harmony.”