Iraqi president, Petraeus discuss security cooperation, regional affairs

BAGHDAD — President Abdul Latif Rashid met Tuesday with former CIA director Gen. David Petraeus, to discuss bilateral relations and regional developments, according to a statement from the Iraqi presidency.

The meeting took place at Al-Salam Palace in Baghdad and included Petraeus’ accompanying delegation.

Rashid emphasized “the need to strengthen security cooperation between the two countries within the framework of a long-term strategic partnership,” the statement said. He also noted Iraq’s “stable security situation” and said the government remains focused on maintaining those gains.

The president added that improved stability has enabled authorities “to focus on improving services, rehabilitating infrastructure, and implementing strategic projects that contribute to sustainable development.”

Statement from the Presidency’s media office:

The President of the Republic, Dr. Abdul Latif Jamal Rashid, received today, Tuesday, October 14, 2025, at Al-Salam Palace in Baghdad, the former Director of the Central Intelligence Agency and former Commander of the International Coalition Forces in Iraq, General David Petraeus, and the accompanying delegation.

During the meeting, they discussed bilateral relations between Iraq and the United States, as well as developments in regional and international events. The President emphasized the need to strengthen security cooperation between the two countries within the framework of a long-term strategic partnership, praising the role played by the United States and the International Coalition Forces in supporting Iraq during its fight against terrorism.

The President also referred to the stable security situation in Iraq and the ongoing efforts to maintain the achievements made in this regard, stressing that stability in the country has served as a basis for shifting attention toward improving services, rehabilitating infrastructure, and implementing strategic projects that contribute to achieving sustainable development.

For his part, General Petraeus expressed his appreciation for the President’s efforts to unify the visions of political parties to strengthen stability in the country. He also praised the progress Iraq has made on security and political levels and affirmed his country’s continued support for Iraq in various fields.