Iraq, Spain Commit to Economic and Trade Growth

During the thirteenth session of the Iraqi-Spanish Joint Committee, hosted in Baghdad, Iraq’s Minister of Transport, Mr. Razzaq Muhaibis Al-Saadawi, announced a successful round of discussions, underscoring Iraq’s commitment to economic openness and international cooperation. This meeting highlighted Iraq’s drive to bolster its economic and trade ties globally under the guidance of Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani, marking a significant shift in the nation’s foreign policy approach.

Mr. Al-Saadawi emphasised that Iraq is actively maximising its strategic geographic position, particularly through the ambitious Development Road project, which aims to achieve economic integration across the region. His remarks echoed Iraq’s intention to reinforce its historical ties with Spain, which date back to the 1970s and are underpinned by a long-standing bilateral cooperation agreement. Notably, this session was the first gathering of the committee since 2013, reflecting a renewed vigour in Iraqi-Spanish relations.

Spanish Ambassador to Iraq, Ms. Alicia Rico Perez del Pulgar, praised Iraq’s ongoing reconstruction and development efforts, highlighting Spain’s commitment to strengthening bilateral relations. Additionally, Ms. Alicia Varela, Spain’s Director General of International Trade and Investment, thanked the Iraqi government for their support in facilitating the session, extending an invitation to Prime Minister Al-Sudani and Minister Al-Saadawi to visit Spain for further discussions. Ms. Varela voiced her hope for increased Spanish investment in Iraq, with a particular focus on collaboration with Iraq’s private sector, expressing Spain’s ambition to be a long-term, reliable partner in Iraq’s future.

The session saw extensive dialogue on potential agreements, with both nations considering memoranda of understanding across sectors, including trade, water resources, youth, sports, tourism, foreign affairs, education, and justice. The committee’s discussions also covered key areas such as energy, transportation, and infrastructure, aiming to build a framework for sustained collaboration and partnership between Iraq and Spain.

The session concluded with the formal signing of meeting minutes, with Minister Al-Saadawi extending gratitude to the Spanish delegation for their attendance. He noted that the outcome of this meeting will enhance Iraq-Spain economic relations and support sustainable development initiatives across various sectors.

Source: Ministry of Transport