Prime Minister Al-Sudani's Focus on Security and Development in Iraq
In a recent development, Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani affirmed that all parts of Iraq are enjoying security, and his government is concentrating on comprehensive development. This announcement came during his residence in the capital Tunis, where he hosted a distinguished gathering of businessmen, investors, and representatives from Tunisian companies and the private sector.
Al-Sudani's Visit to Tunisia: A Boost for Business and Investment
Al-Sudani's visit to Tunisia was aimed at strengthening economic ties and encouraging business and investment cooperation. The discussions with President Qais Saeed and Tunisian business leaders focused on expanding bilateral cooperation, particularly in the tourism sector, while also addressing the ongoing conflict in Gaza.
Security and Cooperation: Managing Internal and External Pressures
Al-Sudani is navigating domestic and Iranian pressure to reduce the presence of U.S. troops and the Global Coalition to Defeat ISIS. In response, Iraq and the United States established the Higher Military Commission (HMC) in August 2023 to reassess the operational environment and capabilities of the Iraqi security forces. The HMC's objective is to transition from the coalition's anti-ISIS mission to bilateral security relations between Iraq and the United States.
Economic Agenda and Development
Al-Sudani's government has been working on an ambitious economic and developmental agenda. Despite challenges, including the need to pass a national oil and gas law and amend amnesty laws, the prime minister has maintained a pragmatic approach to governance. This has been met with a relatively supportive stance from key political actors, who hope to address their issues through Al-Sudani rather than challenge him directly.
Navigating Regional Crises
As tensions in the Middle East escalate, Al-Sudani's visit to Washington in mid-April 2024 was expected to focus on the U.S. troop presence in Iraq and efforts to prevent further attacks on them by Iran-backed Shia militia groups. The Iraqi prime minister is keen to expand the relationship with the U.S. beyond security, aiming to boost U.S. investment in Iraq's economy and strengthen diplomatic ties.
Managing Regional Turmoil
Al-Sudani's visit to the U.S. came at a critical time, with heightened tensions in the Middle East due to the Gaza war spillover and the threat of Iranian retaliation for an attack on its consulate in Damascus. The U.S. has been urging Iraq and other regional partners to persuade Iran to exercise restraint following the killing of Iranian military officers in an April strike attributed to Israel.
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