Monday, April 29, 2024

Baghdad

Iraqi PM confirms strategic framework agreement is a roadmap to promote Iraqi-US ties

 Iraqi PM confirms strategic framework agreement is a roadmap to promote Iraqi-US ties

The Iraqi Prime Minister, Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani, and the US Secretary of State, Antony Blinken. Photo: INA

Baghdad (IraqiNews.com) – The Iraqi Prime Minister, Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani, reaffirmed on Monday that the strategic framework agreement serves as a roadmap for the future development of Iraq-US ties.

Al-Sudani’s remarks took place during his meeting with the US Secretary of State, Antony Blinken, on the sidelines of his official visit to the United States, according to a statement issued by the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO).

The meeting addressed the efforts needed to establish long-term joint relations and activate the strategic framework agreement and the joint Higher Coordination Committee (HCC) between the two countries.

The two sides discussed economic issues, potential investment opportunities for US businesses, particularly in the energy sector, the potential to deepen partnerships with the private sector in Iraq in areas crucial to the country’s economy, and cooperation at different levels that benefits the two countries.

The meeting also addressed regional issues, including the situation in Gaza, where the Iraqi Prime Minister reiterated Iraq’s unwavering position against Israeli aggression, affirming the joint legal and moral responsibility to protect civilians and the need to support efforts to keep the conflict from spreading.

Blinken confirmed the US administration’s support for Iraq’s positions in the region and its steps to develop relations with neighboring countries.

The US State Secretary expressed support for Iraq’s reform and development initiatives, as well as for investments in the oil and gas industry, the expansion of the energy sector, and infrastructure development.

Blinken also expressed the hope that this visit would result in further collaboration between the two countries.