Baghdad: Iraq and Saudi Arabia have taken a significant step in strengthening their bilateral ties by signing an executive program for cooperation in the judicial field. Minister of Justice Khaled Shawani of Iraq and his Saudi counterpart, Walid bin Mohammed Al-Samaani, formalized the agreement during their meetings in Baghdad and Riyadh.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, the Iraqi Ministry of Justice released a statement detailing the meeting that took place in Riyadh. The discussion, which included the presence of the Iraqi Ambassador to Saudi Arabia, Safia Al-Suhail, focused on enhancing bilateral cooperation between the two countries, particularly in the judicial and legal domains. Emphasis was placed on exchanging expertise, coordinating legislative efforts, and developing mechanisms for institutional work in the justice sector.

The statement highlighted that Minister Shawani shared key initiatives undertaken by the Iraqi government to advance the justice sector. These initiatives include modernizing the legislative system, implementing structural reforms, digital transformation, building an integrated criminal justice system, and improving correctional institutions’ performance.

Both parties emphasized the importance of continued collaboration in legislative matters and adopting alternative dispute resolution methods. Such efforts aim to support judicial development and ensure prompt justice in both nations.

The meeting concluded with the signing of an executive program for judicial cooperation. This program covers various areas such as legislation expertise exchange, development of documentation systems, and adoption of alternative dispute resolution methods. Additionally, it includes organizing joint events like conferences, seminars, and training programs to enhance judicial personnel’s efficiency in Iraq and Saudi Arabia.