Iraq’s new Ambassador to Saudi Arabia Safia Taleb Al Souhail said coordination between the two countries is advanced and effective on several security and political levels and in combating terrorism.
In remarks to Asharq Al-Awsat, she stressed that this coordination has helped in developing relations not only between Riyadh and Baghdad, but also countries in the region.
Al Souhail had presented her credentials to Prince Mohammed bin Salman, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, in Jeddah on Tuesday.
She said Iraqi and Saudi relations were the foundations for security and stability in the region.
“We firmly believe in joint work to push these relations to new broader horizons to serve the interests of the peoples of both countries,” she went on to say.
“Our priorities are expanding to include deepening bilateral cooperation in all fields, such as energy, security, economy, trade exchange, culture, education, health, the environment and others,” she stated.
Moreover, Al Souhail underscored her country’s keenness on activating the outcomes of the coordination meetings between Saudi Arabia and Iraq, as well as boosting joint investments and supporting regional peace and security initiatives.
The ambassador stressed the importance of partnership and mutual understanding. “We are committed to partnership and emphasize the importance of the ongoing constructive dialogue to overcome any challenges that may arise,” she went on to say.
“With this approach, we are looking forward to opening new horizons of cooperation that would achieve sustainable development for our peoples and bolster peace in the region and world,” she added.
Deepening cooperation could take place through intensifying political dialogue, strengthening political, security, intelligence and counter-terrorism partnerships, Al Souhail explained.
Furthermore, she said bolstering economic and commercial cooperation, which would support joint investments and diversify sources of income, is an important factor for stability, development and prosperity in the region.
Developing cooperation in energy, the environment, developing sources of renewable energy and boosting cultural and educational exchanges will help build bridges of understanding and friendship between the peoples of Saudi Arabia and Iraq, she continued.
