Iraq and Qatar have signed a Joint Declaration of Intent and agreements and memorandums of understanding in several areas.
Qatar's Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani arrived in Baghdad on Thursday on an official visit and was welcomed by the Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani.
The two sides signed oil and gas supply agreements with Iraq, establishing a joint oil company and constructing a refinery.
The Emir announced on the sidelines of the joint press conference with the PM that they discussed regional political matters and enhancing bilateral relations in various areas, including trade, investment, and energy.
The Iraqi News Agency (INA) also announced that the agreements included a memorandum of understanding in air and land transport and another memorandum to cancel visa requirements for holders of diplomatic passports.
Sudani said he discussed with the Emir the economic opportunities available to the Qatari companies within the government's plans for reconstruction, public services, and infrastructure.
He added that Doha is one of Baghdad's strongest allies, noting that they discussed Iraq's political and security stability, making it a promising workplace.
Spokesman Bassem al-Awadi announced that the visit had significant economic and political aspects.
Last month, Iraq launched the $17 billion "Development Road" project with Qatar, Iran, Türkiye, Syria, Jordan, and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) representatives. It aims to boost regional cooperation and economic opportunities.
The project aims to tie the Grand Faw Port in Iraq to Türkiye, turning the country into a transit hub between Asia and Europe.
Iraqi sources believe the Emir's visit reflects the Iraqi PM's foreign policy, based on "productive diplomacy" that leads to economic partnerships.
They indicated that the visit affirms Iraq's position in the region and its ability to connect with influential parties at the regional and international levels.
The visit relates to the Development Road that the Iraqi PM announced at the Arab League Summit in Saudi Arabia, they noted.
It reflects Doha's will to participate in the Development Road project and the industrial city, said the sources, adding that it also signifies that Qatar views Iraq as its partner with a vital road to transport energy to Europe.
