Baghdad: Government spokesman Haider al-Aboudi announced that Prime Minister Ali al-Zubaidi will travel to the United States on Monday, leading a high-level official delegation, at the invitation of the US President. This visit reflects both sides' commitment to maintaining the strategic partnership in relations between Baghdad and Washington.
According to National Iraqi News Agency, Al-Aboudi stated at the weekly press conference that this visit differs from previous ones, as it represents a comprehensive approach to developing Iraq's foreign relations based on mutual benefit and strengthening partnerships that contribute to supporting Iraq and enhancing its economic and developmental role in the region. He added that the visit comes at a time when Iraq is working to bolster its regional presence and plays a clear role in fostering rapprochement.
He explained that the discussions will focus on developing relations, economic and investment cooperation, activating development initiatives in collaboration with the US, and stimulating the investment environment in the energy, trade, and technology sectors. Al-Zubaidi will hold important meetings with US President Trump and with officials and representatives of economic and financial institutions to advance the dialogue, which will translate into tangible progress. Among the memoranda to be signed by the two sides are those related to oil and gas.
Iraq is preparing for the entry of specialized American companies that will provide a positive boost to increasing Iraqi oil production. In response to a question from a correspondent for the Iraqi National News Agency (NINA) regarding the role of SOMO (State Oil Marketing Organization) and the American vision for oil exports, Al-Aboudi confirmed that the oil file is a top priority during this visit. Significant investments and new agreements will be signed and announced from Washington, based on partnership with the American side in the energy and oil sectors.
Regarding the Strategic Framework Agreement between Iraq and the United States, Al-Aboudi clarified that there will be no changes to the content of this agreement in any of the memoranda, agreements, and documents that will be signed. The dialogues and meetings taking place there are understandings based on this agreement, particularly in the energy, investment, development, and education sectors.
Concerning the Iraqi-American Development and Energy Fund, Al-Aboudi explained that this fund will be on the table for agreement between Baghdad and Washington and for joint coordination. Iraq will deposit limited quantities of oil exports in exchange for services provided by American companies to support development needs in Iraq.
Regarding the level of implementation of the disarmament decision, Al-Aboudi emphasized that restricting weapons is an Iraqi decision based on securing an atmosphere of internal stability to enhance the investment climate and is a fundamental prerequisite for boosting economic growth and attracting investments.
Concerning the issue of recovering funds on the agenda of the Prime Minister's visit to Washington, Al-Aboudi explained that the file is in the hands of oversight institutions, namely the Integrity Commission and the Supreme Judicial Council. There is a periodic bulletin informing countries about certain parties involved in illicit enrichment and working to extradite these individuals.
The Iraqi delegation will raise in Washington all matters related to national interest and the economy, with the aim of translating them into significant projects. Al-Aboudi stated that the nature of the relationship with the United States depends on Iraq's role in managing these relations and transforming them into a long-term partnership based on economics and investment.
He added that reforming the banking sector and developing the management of financial institutions will be clearly shaped within the framework of the relationship with Washington, in accordance with Iraq's interests.