The FINANCIAL -- BAGHDAD, The Iraqi government has agreed to provide $3 billion for the construction of a subway system in Baghdad, the city mayor said.

"The secretariat has invited all global companies that specialize in subways to present their offers to implement the project, which will be the first of its kind in the region," Sabir al-Issawi said in a statement.

Under current plans, the first track will be 18 kilometers long with 20 stations, linking Sadr City on the outskirts of Baghdad with the northern part of the city.

The second track will be 21 kilometers long and will have 21 stations, with trains running from the city center to the western suburbs. The mayor said the metro project will ease road congestion and improve air quality.

The conditions for the tender and the duration of the project will be announced at a later date, he said.

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