Shafaq News- Washington
US President Donald Trump began talks with Iraqi Prime Minister Alial-Zaidi at the White House on Tuesday, in the Iraqi premier's first foreigntrip since taking office in May.
Al-Zaidi, a businessman with no prior political background, emerged as aconsensus candidate and drew early public backing from Trump, who opposed thecandidacy of former Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki, leader of the State of Lawcoalition.
Al-Zaidi's office said in a statement that the Washington visit intendsto strengthen economic and development partnerships, attract investment, andexpand the role of US companies in implementing infrastructure projects, whileadvancing cooperation in Iraq's oil and energy sectors. His delegation includesIraqi business leaders and government officials.
A senior official in the US Administration told Shafaq News on Monday thatcurbing Iranian influence, halting attacks launched from Iraqi soil by“Iran-backed militias,” and demonstrating measurable results on militiadisarmament are the core demands Washington will put to Baghdad.
