Meeting in Baghdad
Al-Sudani to Spanish FM: Time for new phase in relations
BAGHDAD, January 25 — Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia’ Al-Sudani declared the time ripe for transitioning to bilateral relations with all coalition countries, asserting that ISIS no longer poses a threat to Iraqi forces.
In a meeting today with Spanish Foreign Minister José Manuel Albares, Al-Sudani also emphasized the importance of Iraqi-Spanish relations and the desire to enhance them across various sectors.
The meeting comes as Iraqi politicians stepped up calls in the last month for international coalition forces led by the U.S. to withdraw from Iraq.
Readout by the PM’s media office:
Prime Minister Mohammed S. Al-Sudani, met, this Thursday morning, the Spanish Minister of Foreign Affairs Mr. José Manuel Albares and his accompanying delegation.
Prime Minister Al-Sudani emphasized the significance of Iraqi-Spanish relations during the meeting, highlighting efforts to enhance cooperation across various levels and fields. He mentioned the successful exchange of visits between officials from both countries, including the recent visit of Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez to Baghdad last month.
Prime Minister Al-Sudani reiterated Iraq’s eagerness to engage Spanish companies in key development projects and strategic infrastructure initiatives, including Al-Faw Grand Port, the Industrial City, and the Development Road projects. He emphasized the expertise and reputable track record of these companies in performance and implementation.
Prime Minister Al-Sudani reiterated Iraq’s stance on the Global Coalition against Daesh, emphasizing that the terrorist organization no longer poses a threat to Iraq. He highlighted the capabilities of the Iraqi armed forces to maintain security, stability, and repel threats independently. Prime Minister Al-Sudani suggested that it is time to transition to bilateral relations with all Coalition member states.
Prime Minister Al-Sudani expressed appreciation for Spain’s stance on the issue of aggression on Gaza, urging increased international pressure to prevent further escalation and emphasizing the swift delivery of humanitarian aid to the Palestinian people.
For his part, Mr. Albares conveyed the Spanish Prime Minister’s greetings to His Excellency, expressing his government’s desire to enhance relations, strengthen the joint Iraqi-Spanish committee’s work, and anticipate the launch of the fourth round of bilateral dialogue between the two countries.
The Spanish Foreign Minister highlighted the mission of Spanish coalition advisors in Iraq, expressing support for any decisions made by Iraq in this regard. He underscored Iraq’s significance as an essential partner for Spain, and ongoing efforts to explore additional partnership opportunities. Additionally, he outlined Spanish efforts towards a ceasefire in Gaza, lifting the blockade, and advocating for a comprehensive peace conference to establish a Palestinian state.
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