Strategic Framework Agreement highlighted in Al-Maliki’s meeting with U.S. ambassador

BAGHDAD — Nouri Al-Maliki, head of the State of Law Coalition, held a meeting on Sunday with U.S. Ambassador to Iraq Alina Romanowski, focusing on regional and international developments, bilateral relations, and efforts to address the voilence in Palestine and Lebanon, according to a statement from Al-Maliki’s media office.

During the talks, both sides exchanged views on the evolving political landscape, with particular attention to the Strategic Framework Agreement between Iraq and the United States.

The Strategic Framework Agreement, signed on Nov. 17, 2008, between Iraq and the United States, establishes a comprehensive framework for cooperation in political, economic, cultural, and security domains.

Although he stepped down as prime minister a decade ago, Nouri Al-Maliki continues to wield significant influence in Iraqi politics. His State of Law Coalition, holding 38 seats as the largest Shia bloc in parliament, plays a central role in the Coordination Framework.

Full statement from Al-Maliki media office:

The head of the State of Law Coalition, Mr. Nouri Al-Maliki, received the United States Ambassador to Iraq, Ms. Alina Romanowski, at his office today.

During the meeting, views were exchanged on developments in the regional and international arenas and efforts to stop the Zionist aggression against Palestine and Lebanon. A number of issues and topics of mutual interest were also discussed.

Mr. Al-Maliki emphasized the importance of strengthening bilateral relations between the two countries and developing them in accordance with the Strategic Framework Agreement, especially after the U.S. elections brought in a new administration. He highlighted the need to find solutions to mitigate conflict in the region and halt crimes committed by Zionists against the Palestinian and Lebanese peoples. He criticized the international community and its institutions for their silence on the destruction, devastation, killings, and displacement of innocent civilians in Lebanon and Palestine.

For her part, the U.S. Ambassador reaffirmed her country’s support for Iraq’s stability, stressing the continuation of necessary assistance to Iraqis within the framework of the Strategic Framework Agreement between the two countries.