Iraq is stepping up preparations to host the Arab League Summit on May 17, expressing strong hopes that the gathering in Baghdad will lead to a unified roadmap for addressing regional and international crises.
The government reiterated its commitment to ensuring the summit’s success, highlighting Iraq’s founding role in the Arab League and the importance of Arab unity in the face of mounting geopolitical challenges.
“This summit comes at a time when the region and the world need a clear Arab stance,” a senior Iraqi official told Asharq Al-Awsat, saying Baghdad seeks that the summit produces “a framework for future cooperation and crisis management.”
While some political factions initially voiced concerns over the invitation extended to Syrian President Ahmed Al-Sharaa, the powerful Coordination Framework coalition has softened its stance.
Coalition leader Uday Al-Khadran confirmed that all member parties support the summit, describing it as a major political and diplomatic milestone for Iraq.
“Hosting the summit reinforces Iraq’s regional standing and signals a return to its leading role in Arab affairs,” he said. Al-Khadran also emphasized that decisions regarding guest participation - such as that of the Syrian president - are the sole prerogative of the federal government.
Al-Sharaa received an official invitation last week to attend the summit, which will mark the 34th regular session of the Arab League and will be held alongside the fifth Arab Economic and Social Development Summit.
On the security front, Interior Minister Abdul Amir Al-Shammari announced that a comprehensive plan has been finalized to safeguard the event.
The ministry confirmed on Thursday that Al-Shammari met with a delegation from the office of the Arab League Secretary-General in Baghdad to review ongoing preparations.
The visiting officials praised Iraq’s efforts, reaffirming the Secretary-General’s support for the success of the summit.
On Thursday, Iraqi President Abdul Latif Rashid sent a formal invitation to Sultan Haitham bin Tariq of Oman to attend the summit.
The message was delivered by Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein during a visit to Muscat. Hussein also held talks with his Omani counterpart, Badr bin Hamad Al-Busaidi, focusing on regional issues and strengthening bilateral ties.
