Higher Coordinating Committee (HCC) Meeting Between Iraq and U.S.. A Confirmation of New Paths of Bilateral Cooperation

The visit of Prime Minister Mr. Muhammad Shia’ al-Sudani, to the United States confirmed new paths of bilateral relations between Iraq and the United States of America, most importantly is the transition to comprehensive relations in various economic, political, and cultural sectors in addition to the security aspects. The visit clearly demonstrated Iraq’s commitment to the outcomes of the Higher Military Commission, to end the mission of the Global Coalition in Iraq.

The Iraqi side affirmed joint work with the United States through the Higher Coordinating Committee HCC, following Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Planning Mohammed Tamim, led the delegation of the Republic of Iraq. and the Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken led the delegation of the United States Government, the meeting discussed important files, Chief among these include energy, investment, transportation, education, climate change challenges, and building solid partnerships, these areas were discussed and specialized working papers were reached through five joint subcommittees that addressed five important axes of the strategic framework agreement.

In this regard the two sides affirmed Iraq has the potential to harness immense natural gas resources, invest in new energy infrastructure and renewables, and achieve energy self-sufficiency by 2030.

In addition to the United States commended Iraq for its progress on gas capture and work on commercializing associated gases. Significant gas potential in the Iraqi Kurdistan Region is a key component of Iraq’s energy security.

In that connection the United States and Baghdad announced the signing of new memorandum of understanding (MOUs) to capture and process flared gas and to benefit from the U.S. private sector’s leading technology and expertise.

Iraq affirmed that enhanced ties based on shared mutual interests with neighboring countries are essential to domestic prosperity.

The two sides discussed the significant progress Iraq has made in modernizing its financial and banking sector, they also noted the importance of improving Iraq’s investment climate and combatting corruption, key pillars of Prime Minister Muhammad Shia’ al-Sudani reform efforts.

Other positive results have been achieved in this meeting related to education, health, and the success of the governmental measures in the field of displaced persons, especially those related to Al-Hol camp

The Prime Minister’s visit received domestic support due to its importance at this time that is witnessing major regional and international developments and challenges, while Iraq is strengthening its international standing. The Prime Minister held exceptional meetings with U.S. officials and economic companies, and met with Iraqi community in the United States.