Washington: President Donald Trump announced plans for significant energy and trade agreements with Iraq, including the import of oil, during a meeting with Iraqi Prime Minister Ali Al-Zaidi. The discussions signal a shift from military to economic cooperation between the two nations.

According to TRTworld.com, speaking at the White House, Trump highlighted Iraq's vast potential due to its oil reserves. "We're going to be doing a lot of deals... creating jobs for both countries," Trump stated, emphasizing the role of American companies in oil extraction. He also lauded al-Zaidi's unexpected electoral victory, suggesting his involvement was crucial in ensuring the right leadership for Iraq.

Trump humorously commented on the Iraqi leader's youthful appearance, quipping, "He's a young man... young and handsome. Which I don't like. I'm not happy about it," eliciting laughter from those present.

Prime Minister al-Zaidi underscored his visit as marking the start of a new economic partnership, confirming that US troops will exit Iraq by September 30. "Our relationship is now based on economic cooperation, not military relations," he affirmed, relaying greetings from Iraq's ancient civilization to America's economic and technological hub.

Al-Zaidi addressed Iraq's role in OPEC, asserting the nation's right to a fair share of oil revenues. He detailed the extensive damage Iraq has endured in its fight against Daesh, with costs exceeding $400 billion, and shared plans to rehabilitate displaced Iraqis.

A crucial element of al-Zaidi's governance is the restriction of arms to state institutions, reiterating a zero-tolerance policy for armed factions post-September 30. "We will never accept any entity carrying weapons outside the control of the state," he declared, emphasizing the policy's non-negotiable nature.