Iraqi Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein held talks in Damascus on Monday with his Syrian counterpart Ahmad Al-Shaibani, focusing on strengthening bilateral relations and expanding cooperation across multiple sectors.
The visit reflects growing coordination between the two countries on economic, energy, and security matters.
Talks on Bilateral Relations
According to a statement by Iraq’s Foreign Ministry, the two sides discussed ways to enhance cooperation and deepen ties between Iraq and Syria.
The meeting highlighted the importance of strengthening relations in areas that serve the mutual interests of both countries.
Energy Transit and Oil Pipeline Project
The discussions included key energy issues, particularly:
– Mechanisms for transporting and transiting energy supplies
– Plans to rehabilitate oil pipelines connecting Iraq to Syria
These projects are expected to support regional energy integration and economic cooperation.
Joint Committees for Cooperation
The two sides agreed to establish:
– A joint technical committee covering energy, agriculture, water, transport, and border crossings
– A higher coordination committee chaired by the two foreign ministers
These committees aim to ensure implementation of agreements and facilitate coordination across sectors.
Cooperation in Agriculture and Water
The talks also covered cooperation in agriculture and water resources, with both sides emphasizing the importance of strengthening food security and achieving economic integration.
Security Coordination
The ministers discussed enhancing security coordination to address shared challenges, stressing the importance of cooperation in maintaining stability in both countries and the wider region.
Meeting with Syrian President
During the visit, Fuad Hussein also met Syrian President Ahmad Al-Sharaa at the Presidential Palace in Damascus.
The meeting focused on:
– Strengthening bilateral relations
– Expanding cooperation in various fields
– Addressing regional and international developments
Both sides emphasized the importance of continued communication and coordination to support regional stability.
Key Points
– Iraq and Syria discuss expanding bilateral cooperation
– Focus on energy transit and oil pipeline rehabilitation
– Agreement to form joint and high-level committees
– Cooperation in agriculture, water, and infrastructure
– Emphasis on security coordination and regional stability
Conclusion
The talks in Damascus underscore Iraq and Syria’s efforts to strengthen cooperation across economic, energy, and security sectors. The agreements reached signal a move toward deeper regional integration and coordinated responses to shared challenges.
