Iraq, India discuss expanded security and economic cooperation in Baghdad meeting

BAGHDAD — Iraq’s National Security Advisor Qasim al-Araji met with Indian Ambassador Sumn Bagchi in Baghdad on Sunday to discuss strengthening bilateral ties, with a focus on security, intelligence, and economic coordination.

In a statement, Al-Araji’s office said the officials reviewed progress in Iraq–India relations and explored steps toward a strategic dialogue that would cover border security, counterterrorism, investment, and technology exchange. The two sides also discussed the potential for new memorandums of understanding to formalize future cooperation.

Full statement from Al-Araji’s office:

National Security Advisor Qasim Al-Araji met Sunday with Indian Ambassador to Iraq, Sumn Bagchi, to discuss strengthening bilateral relations and advancing cooperation between the two countries.

The meeting focused on expanding ties at all levels, with particular attention to enhancing security and intelligence collaboration. Both sides also discussed continuing the strategic dialogue between Iraq and India, covering security, intelligence, economic, and investment issues, as well as exchanging expertise and moving toward signing memorandums of understanding.

Developments in Gaza were also reviewed during the meeting, including what Al-Araji described as ongoing violations of human rights and the killing and starvation of Palestinians. Both sides stressed the need for urgent international action to stop the violence.

Ambassador Bagchi praised the Iraqi government’s role in combating the threat posed by ISIS, saying it represents a danger to the region and the world.

Al-Araji reaffirmed Iraq’s commitment to developing its partnership with India across all sectors. He added that Iraq is open to cooperation with both regional and international partners and is committed to resolving disputes through dialogue and diplomatic channels. He emphasized Iraq’s position as a central player in promoting regional stability.