Lisbon: The Portuguese Foreign Minister and a parliamentary official held a significant meeting to emphasize the importance of dialogue and diplomacy in supporting regional stability. Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein met with Jos© de Almeida Ces¡rio, Chairman of the Foreign Relations Committee of the Portuguese Parliament, at the Portuguese Parliament building in Lisbon during his official visit to Portugal.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, the discussions centered around enhancing bilateral relations between Iraq and Portugal, with a focus on elevating joint cooperation to broader levels. Both parties explored ways to strengthen parliamentary cooperation and activate communication channels between the Iraqi Council of Representatives and the Portuguese Parliament.

The meeting also covered regional and international developments, particularly focusing on the repercussions of the recent war on the security and stability of the region, and its political and economic impacts on Middle Eastern and European countries. Dialogue between the United States and the Islamic Republic of Iran was discussed, highlighting the necessity of continued diplomacy to support regional stability and reduce tensions.

Developments concerning the Strait of Hormuz were also addressed, with an emphasis on ensuring freedom of navigation and the uninterrupted flow of global trade and energy supplies, given the strait's strategic significance to the global economy.

Economic challenges were another focal point, particularly the halt in oil exports via the northern pipeline and the Iraqi government's efforts to mitigate the resulting economic impact. The effects of regional crises on European economies, especially the Portuguese economy, were also discussed.

Fuad Hussein highlighted the importance of reactivating the Iraqi-Portuguese parliamentary friendship committees and increasing reciprocal visits between members of the two parliaments to strengthen political and legislative dialogue, serving the common interests of both countries.

The meeting concluded with the Minister extending an invitation to the Speaker of the Portuguese Parliament to visit Iraq, underscoring the mutual desire to enhance bilateral cooperation.