Iraq and United States deepen economic partnership
Washington (IraqiNews.com) — Iraqi Prime Minister Ali Falih Al-Zaidi and US President Donald Trump agreed during discussions at the White House to boost economic cooperation, enhance strategic connections, and promote more American investment, ushering in a new era in Baghdad-Washington relations.
According to a statement released by the Prime Minister’s Office, the discussions focused on increasing US company participation in Iraq’s development projects, particularly in the energy sector, as well as reviewing security and intelligence cooperation and regional efforts to promote stability.
According to Al-Zaidi, Iraq wants to shift its relationship with the United States away from military cooperation and toward investment, commerce, and long-term economic engagement.
He said that now that the US-led coalition’s military campaign against ISIS has completed, there should be a greater focus on commercial connections and private-sector engagement.
The Prime Minister described the partnership as linking one of the world’s oldest civilizations with one of its leading economic powers, stating that Iraq sees the United States as a strategic partner capable of assisting the country’s economic modernization, technological advancement, and long-term growth.
He also said that the advantages of increased US-Iraq collaboration will be shared across the country, including the Kurdistan Region, Basra, Anbar, and all other governorates, confirming his administration’s commitment to balanced national growth and unity.
Trump, for his part, emphasized the United States’ support for Iraq’s efforts to improve stability, develop economic reforms, and increase bilateral collaboration, while highlighting the country’s vital significance in global oil markets.
The conference ended with both parties confirming their commitment to developing a larger strategic cooperation focused on investment, economic development, and shared regional interests, reflecting Baghdad’s efforts to attract foreign finance and expedite its reform program.