A top Saudi delegation led by Minister of Commerce and Investment Majid al-Qassabi will travel to Baghdad on Wednesday to meet Iraqi officials on trade and investment and attend the second meeting of the Saudi-Iraqi Coordination Council.
The delegation is scheduled to hold talks with Iraqi President Barham Salih, Prime Minister Adel Abdul Mahdi and Speaker Mohammed al-Halbousi.
Iraqi Foreign Ministry spokesman Ahmed al-Sahhaf told Asharq Al-Awsat that the visit of the Saudi delegation comes within the framework of coordination between the two countries at all levels.
Sahhaf pointed out that Saudi Arabia can play a role in Iraq’s reconstruction phase, and cooperate with various economic figures.
The first session of the Saudi-Iraqi Coordination Council was held in October 2017 under the patronage of Saudi King Salman bin Abdulaziz and former Iraqi prime minister Haider al-Abadi.
During Wednesday’s visit, the two sides are expected to sign important agreements and launch a number of projects in several fields.
Saudi Ambassador to Iraq Abdul Aziz al-Shammari noted that Saudi-Iraqi relations are at their best.
The diplomat indicated that Riyadh plans to issue visas to Iraqi citizens through a consulate that is set to open in Baghdad in the coming months.
The Saudi-Iraqi Coordination Council aims to enhance relations between both countries in all fields and coordinate efforts to serve the interests of the peoples of the two states.
It also aims to promote the exchange of technical expertise between Saudi Arabia and Iraq and enhance cooperation in the field of scientific research.
Earlier, the Saudi ambassador told Asharq al-Awsat that the Arar border crossing will open in June, after Riyadh pledged to fully establish an Iraqi crossing point with all the needed requirements including the infrastructure, technical and office supplies, and inspection equipment.
Shammari stressed that area will host the largest trade exchange facility between the two countries, and will be on the Saudi side. He asserted that all imported goods from Saudi Arabia will cost less when transferred via Arar and will have a positive impact on Iraq’s economy.
The diplomat also revealed that the two countries are mulling to sign an agreement to issue visas for Iraqi businessmen and citizens to enter Saudi Arabia.
