Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani traveled to New York to lead his country's delegation to the United Nations General Assembly meetings.
Sudani's supporters, including factions of the Shiite Coordination Framework, expressed concerns over the possibility of a meeting with US President Joe Biden on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly.
While the primary aim may not necessarily have been securing a meeting with Biden, the real intention for Sudani's trip to New York was to sidestep criticisms from adversaries.
Several critics argued that Sudani's government, which refrained from any criticism of Washington for the past few months, would, at best, secure a mere photo-op with Biden.
However, events in New York unfolded in Sudani's favor. After his arrival, the Prime Minister embarked on a series of meetings with top US officials, followed by diverse interactions with global leaders, corporate heads, and media entities.
One of Sudani's key meetings was with an assistant to the US Treasury Secretary.
A significant indicator of the US support was an official invitation extended by Secretary of State Antony Blinken to attend an official summit with Biden in Washington later in the year.
The invitation served as a relief for Sudani's supporters as it conveyed a broader message.
Many of his supporters, especially from the Shiite Coordination Framework, perceived as adversaries to the US, welcomed this development.
Meanwhile, Rabie Nader, Sudani's media director, expressed his satisfaction with the visit, highlighting the successful series of meetings in New York.
Nader emphasized the proactive engagement and attention the Iraqi Prime Minister received from global leaders, indicating a sincere interest in deepening ties with Iraq beyond mere symbolic gestures.
Sudani projected Iraq's balanced stance throughout his six-day visit, emphasizing economic partnerships and collaborative endeavors.
