Baghdad: Government spokesman Haider al-Aboudi announced on Wednesday that Prime Minister Ali Faleh al-Zaidi is scheduled to visit Iran on Thursday. The visit, prompted by an official invitation from the Iranian president, will include discussions on the gas issue as part of the bilateral agenda.

According to Iraqi News Agency, al-Aboudi stated during a press conference that the Prime Minister will be accompanied by a ministerial delegation. The discussions will focus on dialogues and understandings that align with Iraqi interests. The gas issue is expected to be a major topic during the bilateral talks between Iraq and Iran.

Al-Aboudi also highlighted Iraq’s adherence to its international obligations and its strategic economic interests. He mentioned that agreements with the United States, aimed at finding alternative oil routes, could take up to a year to implement due to the need for signed contracts and understandings.

Additionally, al-Aboudi noted that water issues will be a key topic during the Prime Minister’s upcoming visit to Turkey. He emphasized the government’s commitment to addressing complex challenges, combating corruption, and prioritizing farmers’ entitlements, despite regional developments causing delays.

Al-Aboudi stressed that the monopoly of arms by the state is strictly an Iraqi matter and will not be discussed in foreign capitals. He also announced that the Central Bank of Iraq will play a significant role in launching the Development Fund, with interest from international contributors.

The spokesman further outlined Iraq’s diplomatic efforts to address regional developments and highlighted the strategic approach adopted by the government, which was evident during recent agreements in Washington regarding energy and development.

Iraq’s policy of non-interference and respect for international obligations were underscored by al-Aboudi, who noted the country’s recovery and its roadmap of alternatives developed with American companies to address the ongoing Strait of Hormuz crisis. This initiative aims to establish alternative routes for Iraqi exports, capitalizing on Iraq’s crucial role in regional supplies.