BAGHDAD — Iraqi Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi is set to travel to Washington in mid-July as part of an effort to deepen the strategic relationship between Iraq and the United States, with a particular focus on economic partnerships, trade, and attracting investment, according to a government spokesperson.
Spokesperson Haider al-Aboudi characterized the upcoming trip as an initiative “to enhance the Iraqi-U.S. partnership based on mutual interests.”
“The government aims to broaden the horizons of our strategic partnership with global companies and stimulate an investment-friendly environment that contributes tangible benefits to the Iraqi economy while strengthening internal stability,” al-Aboudi told the state news agency.
Since assuming office in May, al-Zaidi has made it clear that revitalizing Iraq’s economy, drawing in foreign investors, and fighting corruption are top priorities for his administration.
Iraq is working to lessen its dependence on oil revenues while confronting long-standing issues such as high unemployment — particularly among younger Iraqis — and deteriorating infrastructure.
Al-Zaidi’s path forward is not without obstacles. He must contend with the influence of Iran-backed militias, deeply rooted corruption, and the delicate task of managing relationships with both Washington and Tehran simultaneously.
The announcement of the Washington visit comes shortly after the U.S. and Iran reached an interim agreement to bring an end to the conflict in the Middle East, a development that is expected to put al-Zaidi’s diplomatic balancing skills to the test.
Following his nomination for the prime ministerial role in April, al-Zaidi received a congratulatory message from U.S. President Donald Trump, who expressed hope for stronger cooperation between Baghdad and Washington.
The two countries are bound by a strategic framework agreement that addresses security, economic, and cultural cooperation. Even so, the relationship has faced periodic strain over issues including the presence of U.S. forces in Iraq, Baghdad’s ties with neighboring Iran, and American pressure on Iraq to rein in Iran-aligned armed factions.
