Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Holds Open Discussion with American Journalists on Current Iraqi Challenges and Policies

As part of his official visit to the United States, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Mr. Fuad Hussein held a roundtable discussion with a group of prominent journalists and correspondents from American media outlets on Tuesday 29 April 2025, at the Embassy of the Republic of Iraq in Washington, D.C.

During the meeting, the Minister reviewed the most prominent regional and international developments and highlighted Iraq’s foreign policy priorities, emphasizing the Iraqi government’s commitment to strengthening its partnership with the United States in the political, security, and economic areas.

The discussion dealt specifically with the challenges related to energy security in Iraq, as well the Minister affirmed that the government is working diligently to reduce dependence on imports, and strengthening national energy production capacities by diversifying international partnerships and activating new agreements with several countries, in addition to benefiting from global expertise in renewable energy and associated gas exploitation.

Additionally, the discussions touched on the role of U.S. forces in Iraq, the Minister explained that the presence of these forces falls within the framework of training and advisory support and not within combat framework, underlining Iraq’s commitment to preserving its national sovereignty, its commitment to continuing security cooperation, and preventing the resurgence of Da’esh terrorist activity, while affirming its non-involvement in any regional conflicts.

Regarding the humanitarian situation in Gaza, the Minister reiterated Iraq’s firm position in support of pacification efforts and its rejection of targeting civilians, affirming that stability in the region will not be achieved without a just and comprehensive settlement of the Palestinian issue.

The meeting also included discussions on developments in the nuclear negotiations with Iran, Iraqi-Syrian relations, and the importance of supporting efforts to combat terrorism and extremism in the region. In this context, the Minister emphasized Iraq’s endeavor to play an effective and balanced role in its Arab and regional environment, based on the principles of mutual respect and common interests.