Saudi-Iraqi Talks Aim to Expand Cooperation, Regional Calm

Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan met with Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani to discuss the ties between their countries and regional developments.
According to a statement from al-Sudani’s office, the meeting focused on strengthening Iraq-Saudi relations, especially in political and economic areas. They also discussed activating the Iraqi-Saudi Coordination Council to promote mutual interests.
The statement added that they talked about the situation in Gaza, emphasizing the need for joint Arab and international efforts to stop the violence.
They called on the international community to prevent further suffering of the Palestinian people and support their right to live on their land.
Saudi Arabia’s official news agency, SPA, reported that Prince Faisal conveyed greetings from King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, along with their hopes for Iraq’s continued progress.
The meeting also covered ways to enhance bilateral relations and addressed various regional and international issues of mutual interest, SPA added.
Farhad Alaaldin, the Iraqi Prime Minister's Advisor on Arab and International Affairs, told Asharq Al-Awsat that the Saudi Foreign Minister’s visit to Baghdad comes at a crucial time, with rising regional tensions.
Alaaldin highlighted that the visit reflects the strong ties between Iraq and Saudi Arabia, particularly in political, diplomatic, and economic areas, especially in the energy sector.
He noted that both countries have significant influence globally, and their cooperation has proven beneficial for both nations.
He also mentioned that Saudi Arabia values Iraq’s key role in the region and appreciates their united stance on critical issues, particularly the Palestinian cause and the situation in Gaza.
Issam Faily, a political science professor at Al-Mustansiriyah University, also told Asharq Al-Awsat that Saudi Arabia sees Iraq as a strategic partner.
He pointed out that this is Prince Faisal’s third visit to Iraq in less than three years, showing strong coordination between the two countries during these tense times.
Faily added that Saudi Arabia wants Iraq to play a crucial role in regional stability and in strengthening their bilateral relations.

Saudi-Iraqi Talks Aim to Expand Cooperation, Regional Calm