PM Reaffirms Government's Commitment to Strengthening Ties with Gulf States, Iraq's Arab Depth

Prime Minister Ali Faleh al-Zaidi today, Wednesday, received the Secretary-General of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Jasem Mohamed al-Budaiwi and his accompanying delegation. Al-Budaiwi conveyed a message of congratulations from the leaders of the Arab Gulf states to al-Zaidi on earning the confidence of the Council of Representatives and forming the government. During the meeting, discussions focused on ways to enhance bilateral relations between Iraq and the sisterly GCC states, and to consolidate mutual cooperation in various sectors. These efforts aim to support shared interests and establish foundations for development and prosperity in the region. Al-Zaidi affirmed the government's strong commitment to strengthening ties with the Gulf countries, emphasizing their significance as Iraq's Arab depth. He also stated that Iraq is entering a new phase based on principles of building a modern state with full sovereignty, a robust economy, the rule of law, and strengthened relations with its Arab, regional, and international environments. For his part, the GCC Secretary-General commended the bold reform steps undertaken by the Prime Minister, which include bolstering the economy, combating corruption, consolidating arms under state control, and building solid relations with Arab Gulf states. Al-Budaiwi expressed the Council's full readiness to expand the partnership with Iraq across various levels and fields.