BAGHDAD/MILAN (ITALPRESS/MNA) – A major step forward in Italian-Iraqi healthcare cooperation was marked with the laying of the foundation stone for a new state-of-the-art hospital in Baghdad, an initiative led by GKSD Holding Investment Group and Gruppo San Donato.
The project is part of a broader institutional mission across the Middle East, spearheaded by Kamel Ghribi, President of GKSD and Vice President of Gruppo San Donato.
The new facility will be built on the site of the former Turkish restaurant in Tahrir Square, a historic and symbolic location in the heart of the Iraqi capital. The hospital is designed to meet the highest international standards and will be staffed by an integrated team of Italian and Iraqi medical professionals.
This latest endeavor builds on GKSD and Gruppo San Donato’s existing cooperation with Iraq’s Ministry of Health, which currently includes the management of two public hospitals in Najaf and Basra.
The project represents the culmination of two years of intense collaboration between GKSD and the Iraqi government. It also aligns with the broader national strategy led by Prime Minister Mohammed Shia’ Al-Sudani, who has prioritized strategic infrastructure and reconstruction efforts in Iraq.
The groundbreaking ceremony was attended by top Iraqi and international dignitaries, including Prime Minister Al-Sudani himself, Minister of Health Saleh Al-Hasnawi, Italian Senate Vice President Licia Ronzulli, EU Special Envoy to the Gulf Luigi Di Maio, and Baghdad Mayor Ammar Moussa Kadhum.
“This milestone strengthens our commitment to Iraq and deepens our collaboration with its government,” said Kamel Ghribi. “We are proud to contribute to the development of the country’s healthcare system by offering our expertise, passion, and innovative approach to patient care to the Iraqi people.”
Following his visit to Iraq, Ghribi continued his Middle East mission with a significant stop in Syria, where he met with President Ahmad Al-Sharaa and Foreign Minister Asaad Hassan Al-Shibani. Discussions, held in a constructive and cordial atmosphere, focused on rebuilding bilateral ties and outlining a shared vision for stability and reconstruction.
Ghribi reaffirmed GKSD’s commitment to supporting Syria’s healthcare revival, offering strategic aid, medical technologies, and proven healthcare models.
“Investing in Syria requires foresight and courage,” he stated. “Now is the time to look ahead, to believe in the power of reconstruction. Syria is a great country with an ancient history, a rich culture, and a resilient, educated people. It is our duty to support its rebirth with respect, vision, and a spirit of cooperation.”
-Photo: GKSD Press Office-
(ITALPRESS).
