Berlin: Prime Minister Ali Faleh al-Zubaidi’s visit to Germany has been marked by discussions aimed at strengthening the partnership between Iraq and Germany, emphasizing mutual respect and economic collaboration. According to National Iraqi News Agency, al-Zubaidi highlighted the strong relationship between the two nations and described Germany as a reliable partner. He expressed Iraq’s intention to build economic bridges, utilizing its abundant resources and workforce while acquiring technology and expertise from Germany.
During a press conference with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz in Berlin, al-Zubaidi reiterated the need for a reciprocal partnership, mentioning Iraq’s plans to diversify export routes for crude oil through Syria and Turkey. He also expressed a shared goal with Germany to defuse the crisis between Iran and the United States, which has impacted global oil markets.
Al-Zaydi discussed the importance of political communication with Germany to address regional issues, affirming Iraq’s commitment to a moderate policy. On the matter of foreign prisoners affiliated with ISIS, he clarified that it falls under judicial jurisdiction. He also emphasized the capability of Iraqi security forces to protect national security and the importance of keeping weapons under state control.
The Prime Minister and Chancellor Merz led expanded talks and signed the fourth phase of the Energy Cooperation Agreement between Iraq’s Ministry of Electricity and Siemens. Al-Zaidi also attended the German-Iraqi Dialogue Forum under the theme ‘Economic Bridges for a Shared Future,’ where he invited German companies to invest in Iraq, assuring them of a supportive investment environment.
Meanwhile, political forces in Iraq have reaffirmed their support for the government’s efforts to restrict weapons to the state and expedite the cabinet formation. President Nizar Amidi and Badr Organization Secretary-General Hadi al-Amiri stressed the importance of supporting the government in implementing its program to fulfill citizens’ aspirations.
The Iraqi newspaper Al-Zaman reported on al-Zaidi’s visit to Berlin following his trip to France, where he discussed economic and investment cooperation with German officials. This visit is seen as a pivotal step in expanding Iraq’s economic relations and attracting foreign investments, benefiting from German expertise and technology.
Al-Zaidi also announced an agreement with French President Emmanuel Macron to prepare for the Baghdad-Paris Conference, aimed at furthering Iraq’s economic development and partnerships with international companies.