PM Al-Sudani and Italian defense minister discuss strengthening security collaboration

BAGHDAD — Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani met with Italian Minister of Defense Guido Crosetto on Saturday in Baghdad to discuss enhancing bilateral relations, with a focus on security cooperation and regional stability. During the meeting, Al-Sudani praised Italy’s contributions through the International Coalition and NATO Mission, emphasizing Iraq’s commitment to collaborating with friendly nations to ensure regional and global security, according to a statement from his media office.

Statement from PM Al-Sudani’s media office:

The Prime Minister, Mr. Mohammed S. Al-Sudani, met today the Italian Minister of Defense, Mr. Guido Crosetto.

The meeting discussed bilateral relations and ways to enhance them in various fields, particularly in security cooperation, to achieve mutual benefits for the two friendly nations.

The Prime Minister praised Italy’s role in supporting Iraq through the International Coalition and NATO Mission. He expressed Iraq’s readiness to cooperate with friendly countries to stabilize the region, emphasizing its impact on global security.

The Prime Minister stressed the importance of concerted efforts to assist Syrians in managing their country’s affairs without interference that compromises Syria’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. He also stated that the Iraqi government is evaluating developments in Syria to make informed decisions regarding its evolving situation.

For his part, Mr. Crosetto conveyed the greetings of Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni to Prime Minister Al-Sudani and her anticipation of his visit to Italy. He affirmed Italy’s desire to expand its relations with Iraq, building on the existing partnership and cooperation between the two countries, and its readiness to support regional stability. He also noted that Iraq is steadily reclaiming its pivotal role in the region.