Middle East Institute Hosts Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister to Discuss Regional and International Affairs

On Monday 28 April 2025, the Middle East Institute MEI in Washington, hosted a roundtable discussion with the participation of Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Mr. Fuad Hussein, with the attendance of a group of researchers, experts, and specialists in Middle Eastern affairs. The roundtable discussed regional developments and Iraq’s growing role in the region.

The discussions touched on several regional and international issues, including the new U.S. administration’s approach to the Middle East, the importance of consolidating stability, efforts to combat Da’esh terrorist organization, the political and humanitarian situation in Syria, and the latest economic and security developments in the region.

The Minister affirmed the importance of continuing the strategic dialogue between Iraq and the United States, and exploring new horizons to enhance bilateral cooperation, particularly in the next round, which will focus on economic development and energy security.

Minister Hussein highlighted Iraq’s commitment to strengthening balanced partnerships with regional countries and supporting all initiatives aimed at calming the situation and achieving regional stability. As well the Minister emphasized Iraq’s continued monitoring of the ongoing negotiations between the United States and Iran, and stressed the importance of peaceful solutions through dialogue, in addition he reiterated Iraq’s full commitment to holding the sixth parliamentary elections in accordance with the highest democratic standards, which will contribute to consolidating political stability and meeting the aspirations of the Iraqi people.

Regarding regional developments, the Minister expressed Iraq’s deep concern over the humanitarian situation in the Gaza Strip, stressing the need to intensify international efforts to support calm and protect civilians.

Additionally, the Minister reviewed the tangible improvement in the security situation in Iraq, noting that the Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF) are part of the official security system and operate under state command and within the framework of the law. In another context, the Minister called on the new U.S. administration to reconsider travel warnings issued regarding Iraq, especially in light of the security stability witnessed in most provinces, and urged American companies to invest in Iraq.

Regarding the Syrian issue, Mr. Hussein welcomed the recent agreement reached between the Syrian government and the Syrian Democratic Forces, considering such agreements an important step toward achieving political and security stability through peaceful and negotiated solutions.

The roundtable sessions ended with an emphasis on the shared commitment to deepening cooperation between Iraq, the United States, and regional partners, and the need to continue constructive dialogue to enhance regional stability and support economic development. The meeting was attended by the Ambassador of the Republic of Iraq to Washington Mr. Nazar Al Khirullah, Head of America Department Dr. Diyari Majeed, and Dr. Fuad Ghazi Head of Media Department.