Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein Discusses with US Senators Bilateral Relations and Regional Issues

Baghdad, 24 May, 2025 – Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Mr. Fuad Hussein received Independent U.S. Senator Angus King of Maine, and Republican U.S Senator James Lankford of Oklahoma. 

During the meeting, the two sides discussed a number of issues of mutual concern, as the Senators congratulated Iraq on the successful hosting of the recent Arab Summit in Baghdad and noted significant improvements in the country’s stability. Minister Hussein emphasized that Iraq-U.S. relations are strategic in nature, ranging from cooperation in the fight against terrorism to cooperation in reconstruction and enhancing regional stability, as well as key sectors such as energy and education. He also expressed Iraq’s aspiration to expand the scope of these relations and to see greater involvement from American companies in the country’s promising investment opportunities and development efforts.

In a related context, the Minister affirmed that Iraq is making rapid progress toward achieving energy self-sufficiency and independence, through the utilization of associated gas and the strengthening of electricity interconnection projects with neighboring countries, and explore new gas fields, these initiatives aim to position Iraq not only as a leading oil producer, but also as a future gas-producing country. He encouraged American companies to invest in this strategic sector.

As well as the Minister indicated that Iraq is preparing to hold its sixth parliamentary elections in November this year, reflecting the deepening of the democratic experience among the Iraqi people and contributes to stability and reconstruction. However, the Minister also expressed regret that several Western countries continue to classify Iraq as a high-risk destination in their travel advisories, which negatively impacts the entry of foreign companies and hinders the growth of tourism and cultural exchange.

On another note, both sides affirmed that Da’esh terrorist group remains a serious threat to the region and the world, stressing the importance of continued international cooperation to eliminate the group and prevent its resurgence. They also discussed the ongoing negotiations between the United States and Iran, agreeing that dialogue remains the best path to resolve outstanding issues, achieve regional stability, and avoid escalation.

At the end of the meeting, the two sides reiterated their support for a political process in Syria that ensures a comprehensive democratic transition, meets the aspirations of the Syrian people, and leads to the formation of an elected government representing all components of society while safeguarding their rights.