Baghdad: Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani discussed with Azerbaijani Foreign Minister Jeyhun Bayramov strengthening bilateral relations, especially in the energy sector. The Prime Minister’s Office stated in a statement: “Al-Sudani received Bayramov, accompanied by the Vice President of SOCAR Oil and Gas Production Company. During the meeting, they discussed ways to enhance constructive cooperation between the two countries in various fields, particularly in the energy sector.”
According to National Iraqi News Agency, Al-Sudani affirmed Iraq’s keenness to maintain bilateral relations and develop joint action, praising Azerbaijan’s supportive stances on Iraq’s security and stability. He also pointed to the importance of activating a number of joint issues that contribute to strengthening relations and serving the interests of the peoples of the two friendly countries.
The Prime Minister expressed the government’s intention to establish bilateral partnerships with Azerbaijan to implement projects in the oil sector, highlighting the investment opportunities available in the energy sector. He praised Azerbaijan’s SOCAR company and invited it to invest in the oil extraction sector, in light of Iraq’s efforts in recent years to develop gas production and attract major companies to invest in this important sector.
The two sides also discussed regional developments, with Al-Sudani affirming Iraq’s rejection of the ongoing attacks on Gaza and Lebanon, the brutal crimes committed by the occupying entity against defenseless civilians, and its policy of starvation amid international silence. He noted Iraq’s balanced policy and its efforts to address security issues that support stability in the region.
Bayramov conveyed his country’s president’s greetings to the Prime Minister and renewed his invitation to visit Azerbaijan to advance further cooperation between the two countries. Al-Sudani affirmed his willingness to accept the invitation as soon as possible. The Azerbaijani Foreign Minister expressed his country’s keenness to maintain relations with Iraq at various levels.