Washington – INA
U.S. Energy Secretary Chris Wright said on Friday that Iraq has significant opportunities to achieve development and strengthen its strategic partnership with the United States.
Speaking at a business conference hosted by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and attended by an Iraqi News Agency correspondent, Wright said the Iraqi representatives participating in the event "represent the driving force behind investment and partnerships with Iraq, namely the Iraqi government and companies."
"There is tremendous potential for progress in Iraq, including increasing oil production, advancing freedom and prosperity, and providing abundant energy for the Iraqi people," he added.
He said the private sector is the key driver of that progress through capital investment, technology transfer, and bringing skilled talent to Iraq to accelerate development and deepen the strategic partnership with the United States.
Wright said Prime Minister Ali Al-Zaidi had recognized Iraq's need for a partnership with the United States and for creating a business environment that would bring peace and prosperity to the Iraqi people.
"I am delighted to stand here today and witness the signing of agreements and partnerships, along with commitments to major investments in Iraq," he said.
Wright described the day as "a turning point" in the relationship between Iraq and the United States, saying it marked an important moment in ties between "one of the world's oldest, proudest, and most influential nations in shaping the world as we know it today—Iraq—and the United States of America."
He added, "I extend my sincere welcome to Iraqi Prime Minister Ali Al-Zaidi, who chose the United States for his first official foreign visit as prime minister. He recognized that Iraq's most important relationship in the coming period will be with the United States."
Wright also expressed his appreciation to Prime Minister Al-Zaidi, praising "his leadership and determination to transform Iraq and achieve stability, peace, and prosperity."
