During a visit to the United States by Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia’ Al Sudani, Iraq signed 18 memorandums of understanding with several American companies. According to a statement from the Iraqi Prime Minister’s office reported by Al-Sumaria News, these agreements cover sectors such as oil, energy, technology, and electronics.
In related discussions, Al Sudani met with U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham to discuss the future of Iraq-U.S. relations and the ongoing conflict in Gaza. According to the Iraqi News Agency (INA), the discussions in Washington D.C. explored the Iraqi government’s vision for a future bilateral relationship characterized by cooperation and partnership in various sectors. They also discussed the Middle East’s situation, the war in Gaza, and emphasized the need to de-escalate military actions and manage the conflict.
Senator Graham expressed his appreciation for Iraq’s steps toward enhanced cooperation and strategic bilateral relations with the United States.
Prime Minister Al Sudani’s visit to the U.S. began last Saturday with a delegation comprising government and parliamentary members and private sector representatives, following an invitation from President Joe Biden.
Recent cooperation between the US and Iraq has been focused on security, economic, and regional stability issues. During a recent U.S.-Iraq Joint Security Cooperation Dialogue in Washington, D.C., both nations reaffirmed their commitment to security cooperation and regional stability. The discussions centered on defense issues under the 2008 U.S.-Iraq Strategic Framework Agreement, aiming to deepen security cooperation and develop Iraq’s security and defense capabilities.
Politically, the United States and Iraq engaged in formal discussions about the potential withdrawal of US troops from Iraq. These talks aim to establish a timeline for the phased withdrawal of the 2,500 US troops still stationed there as part of the coalition formed in 2014 to help defeat ISIL. The dialogues underscore both nations’ intent to transition towards an enduring bilateral security partnership, reflecting the significant progress made in defeating ISIL and the evolving nature of their strategic relationship.
