Baghdad: Iraq and Turkmenistan have signed a memorandum of understanding aimed at enhancing cooperation in the energy sector, specifically focusing on gas imports. This agreement was finalized during the fourth round of political consultations held at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Baghdad.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, the discussions were led by Iraq’s Undersecretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for Bilateral Relations, Ambassador Mohammed Hussein Bahr al-Ulum, and his Turkmen counterpart, Ahmed Qurbanov. The talks centered around strengthening bilateral cooperation in various sectors, with a particular emphasis on economic, trade, and investment opportunities as outlined in the agreements and memoranda of understanding between the two nations.

Ambassador Bahr al-Ulum emphasized the significance of leveraging Iraq’s favorable security and political environment to encourage Turkmenistan’s public and private sectors to explore collaborative opportunities in Iraq. He underscored the potential for partnerships across multiple fields, aiming to fortify the ties between the two countries.

The memorandum of understanding signed between Iraq and Turkmenistan is expected to play a key role in addressing the energy needs of both countries. Ambassador Bahr al-Ulum also highlighted cultural and educational initiatives, such as the “Study in Iraq” program, aimed at fostering closer ties between the peoples of Iraq and Turkmenistan.

Both parties agreed that official exchanges and the opening of embassies in Baghdad and Ashgabat are crucial for deepening bilateral cooperation. These steps are anticipated to enhance diplomatic relations and broaden collaboration in political, economic, and cultural domains.

The meeting concluded with both sides agreeing on several practical steps to be explored and discussed further, paving the way for strategic relations that align with the aspirations of Iraq and Turkmenistan.