Iraq PM and Russian president discuss energy cooperation

BAGHDAD — Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani and Russian President Vladimir Putin held a phone call on Thursday to discuss bolstering bilateral ties and addressing pressing regional and global issues, according to official statements from both governments.

A readout from Al-Sudani’s office noted that the discussion centered on enhancing cooperation between Iraq and Russia in a manner that serves mutual interests. The leaders exchanged views on the Middle East, emphasizing the importance of collective international efforts to prevent further regional and global destabilization stemming from ongoing conflicts.

The conversation also covered energy coordination, particularly within OPEC and OPEC+. Both leaders stressed the need to stabilize oil and gas prices to ensure fairness for producers and consumers.

The Kremlin’s statement highlighted additional topics, including trade, economic partnerships, transportation, logistics, and humanitarian cooperation. Specific attention was given to advancing energy projects and reaffirming commitments made during al-Sudani’s visit to Moscow in October 2023.

“The focus remains on maintaining traditionally friendly and mutually beneficial ties between our nations,” the Kremlin stated.

The Kremlin added that the two sides agreed to maintain contact at various levels to strengthen cooperation.