Iraq Shifts to Economic Partnership with US as Combat Mission Ends
According to the International Desk of Webangah News Agency, Iraqi Prime Minister and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, Ali Al-Zaidi, stated in an interview with Sky News Arabia that his visit to Washington signifies a new era of cooperation between Iraq and the United States, built on shared interests and mutual respect. He indicated that the international coalition forces would conclude their combat mission against ISIS in September and depart Iraq permanently.
Al-Zaidi elaborated that Iraq eagerly anticipates American involvement through economic cooperation, investment, and development in the post-combat phase. The primary objective, he explained, is to transition from a military partnership to a sustainable economic relationship, establishing an effective economic bridge between Iraq and the U.S. that benefits both nations. To facilitate this, directives have been issued to the Ministries of Oil, Electricity, and Communications to prioritize reputable American companies for projects in energy, communications, technology, and development.
Furthermore, the Ministerial Council for Economy has made significant decisions concerning major oil projects with global companies such as Chevron, Halliburton, and HKN, creating opportunities in new fields and exploration blocks. The communications sector is moving towards a strategic partnership with Starlink to bolster Iraq’s digital infrastructure.
Discussions with the U.S. will include the Energy and Development Fund project, which plans to operate from 500,000 to two million barrels per day, based on economic conditions and production capacity, potentially operating outside OPEC quotas. Al-Zaidi also addressed the issue of armed groups, emphasizing that the government is the comprehensive framework and that arms outside this structure are not acceptable. While acknowledging the groups’ role in combating terrorism, he stressed the current phase requires a transition to operating through government institutions.
Regarding relations with the Islamic Republic of Iran, Al-Zaidi described them as being based on good neighborliness, respect, and common interests, similar to Iraq’s relations with all regional countries. He asserted that Iraq does not accept dictation from any party and that decision-making will always be guided by the principle of “Iraq First.” The focus remains on building strong economic cooperation with the United States, serving Iraq’s interests without compromising any other party. Iraq’s policy is not to pursue alignment or enmity, but rather to serve as a platform for connection and stability, not conflict.
Baghdad welcomes any dialogue aimed at de-escalating regional tensions, including negotiations between the U.S. and Iran.
