Iraqi PM to Meet Trump as Washington Visit Focuses on Economy, Energy and Investment

Peregraf- Iraqi Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi will travel to Washington on Monday at the head of a high-level delegation for talks with U.S. President Donald Trump, senior American officials, and leading economic and financial institutions, with the visit expected to focus primarily on expanding economic cooperation.

Government spokesperson Haider al-Aboudi announced the visit during a press conference on Sunday, describing it as a significant step in strengthening Iraq's balanced foreign policy based on mutual interests.

"The Prime Minister will lead a delegation to the United States tomorrow," al-Aboudi said, adding that the visit comes at a sensitive time for the region.

He said al-Zaidi is scheduled to meet President Trump, senior U.S. officials, and representatives of major economic and financial institutions to deepen bilateral cooperation.

According to al-Aboudi, the Iraqi delegation will prioritize economic, investment, and development issues, marking a shift from previous visits that were largely dominated by security matters.

"The unique aspect of this visit compared to previous ones is that its primary theme is the economy," he said.

The two sides are expected to sign several memorandums of understanding (MOUs), including agreements in the oil and gas sector, with American energy companies expected to participate in projects aimed at increasing Iraq's production capacity and developing alternative export routes to reduce the impact of disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz.

Al-Aboudi said discussions will also focus on expanding cooperation in energy, trade, technology, and investment, as well as activating projects under the proposed Iraqi-American Fund for Development and Energy.

He emphasized that the Strategic Framework Agreement between Iraq and the United States remains the foundation of bilateral relations, adding that all agreements reached during the visit will fall within that framework.

"The nature of the relationship with the United States will transition from crisis management to a long-term economic partnership," al-Aboudi said.

The visit will also include discussions on equipping Iraq's security forces and strengthening military capabilities.

Addressing Iraq's recent decision to place all weapons under state control, al-Aboudi said the policy is intended to strengthen internal stability and improve the investment climate by reinforcing state authority.