Baghdad, Iraq – Iraq and the United States reaffirmed on Tuesday their shared commitment to strengthening a “strong and mutually beneficial” strategic partnership. This partnership encompasses comprehensive security, energy, and mutual investment. Furthermore, it supports political, economic, and developmental stability in the country.
This came in a joint statement issued today by Iraqi Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi and US President Donald Trump’s Special Envoy, Tom Barrack. The statement indicated that both sides reaffirmed their governments’ commitment to establishing a partnership capable of fulfilling the aspirations of the Iraqi people for a future of sovereignty, security, and prosperity. It also emphasized the importance of delivering tangible benefits to both nations.
During the meeting, Barrack conveyed President Trump’s anticipation of welcoming the Iraqi Prime Minister to the White House in mid-July. The visit will include discussions on the future of relations.
Complete disarmament and the imposition of sovereignty
According to the statement, the two sides discussed the Iraqi government’s ambitious vision for building a future free from terrorism. They also addressed the implementation of plans aimed at the complete disarmament and disbanding of all armed groups and formations operating outside the authority and control of the state.
Both sides emphasized the necessity of the state having a monopoly on the use of force and enforcing full sovereignty. This would ensure Iraq’s neutrality in external conflicts and prevent its territory from being used by any party to threaten regional peace. The statement stressed the urgent need to achieve these goals.
Investment boom and major energy projects
On the economic front, the Prime Minister announced Iraq’s commitment to deepening trade and investment relations, a move welcomed by the US envoy as a shared approach. Both sides commended the practical steps taken, including the completion of the operational license process for Starlink to provide world-class internet.
Negotiations were launched with Chevron to develop the West Qurna-2 and Nasiriyah oil fields. HKN, Western Zagros, and Hunt were enabled to resume operations with full security guarantees. Furthermore, the memorandum of understanding with TI Capital for the rehabilitation of the vital Kirkuk-Banias oil export pipeline was finalized.
The statement also addressed Iraq’s needs through Excelerate Energy’s project to develop a floating liquefied natural gas (LNG) import terminal in Khor Al-Zubair. The statement concluded by affirming both sides’ support for a strong, unified, and sovereign federal and democratic Iraq, based on robust constitutional institutions that guarantee full equality for all citizens, thereby promoting stability and prosperity.
