The Iraqi delegation, headed by Prime Minister Mustafa al-Kadhimi, began its official visit to Washington by holding talks with US officials on the economy, energy, health, and investment.
The strategic dialogue aims to review the security and political agreement signed between Iraq and the US in 2008 and determine the future framework for the relationship between both countries.
Kadhimi is trying to obtain US support to confront his country's stifling economic and health crisis. However, a number of political parties affiliated with Iran are calling on him to discuss with US President Donald Trump on Thursday the withdrawal of American troops from Iraq.
The Fatah alliance, headed by Hadi al-Amiri who has close ties with Iran, warned that possible US dictates on the prime minister would be rejected by most political blocs. It indicated that Washington has not worked to rebuild Iraq or assist its government in overcoming the political or economic crises.
Legal expert Ali al-Tamimi explained that Kadhimi has the power to conclude agreements with the US without referring to the parliament.
Tamimi said in a statement that the Iraqi constitution as well as the government’s bylaws stipulate that the cabinet can negotiate and sign treaties, and the parliament ratifies them through a two-thirds majority.
Iraqi professor Fadhel al-Badrani told Asharq al-Awsat that Kadhimi’s visit would probably result in the announcement of a personal US support to the premier, which his predecessor, Adel Abdul-Mahdi, has failed to receive.
Professor of Political Science at the Kufa University Iyad al-Anbar believes that Kadhimi’s visit to Washington is necessary to restore relations between Baghdad and Washington at the highest levels.
In remarks to Asharq Al-Awsat, he ruled out tangible results, saying the Trump administration is busy with the presidential elections in November.
However, he indicated that Kadhimi does not have a parliamentary bloc to back him in possible agreements with the US.
Political blocs also view his government as "provisional," with a mission to prepare for the upcoming elections.
