Baghdad: Head of the National State Forces Alliance, Ammar al-Hakim, met this evening with the Jordanian Ambassador to Iraq, Maher al-Tarawneh. A statement by al-Hakim’s office indicated that during the meeting, they exchanged New Year’s greetings. The two sides also discussed a number of issues of mutual interest, particularly ways to develop bilateral relations between Iraq and Jordan in a manner that serves the interests of both countries and their brotherly peoples.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, al-Hakim pointed to the latest developments in the Iraqi political scene, especially the presidential elections and the formation of the new government following the recent parliamentary elections. He emphasized that “what has been achieved is a national accomplishment that adds to the series of security, political, and social achievements that Iraq has made, especially the conduct of the elections with a high level of integrity and transparency.”

He emphasized the importance of continuing the policy of mutual openness between Iraq and its regional and international neighbors, explaining: ‘The most prominent challenge facing the country today is primarily economic, related to completing the services sector, improving infrastructure, and strengthening economic partnerships.’

Al-Hakim affirmed: ‘Iraq, through the efforts of its people and its national will, will succeed in this challenge, just as it succeeded in overcoming far greater challenges during the past two decades.’