Ammar al‑Hakim, during a meeting with Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al‑Sudani, stressed the independence of Iraq’s decision‑making and the need to prevent foreign interference, as efforts continue to resolve constitutional obligations and form the government. At the same time, Nouri al‑Maliki met with U.S. envoy Tom Barrack, where he affirmed support for the democratic process and respect for Iraq’s sovereignty, amid divisions within the Coordination Framework over al‑Maliki’s nomination for prime minister.

A statement from al‑Hakim’s office said he received Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al‑Sudani, and the two discussed developments in the political scene in Iraq and the region, emphasizing the need to finalize the remaining entitlements related to the three presidencies and the formation of the government.

According to the statement, al‑Hakim stressed “the importance of making concessions for the public interest and taking into account the challenges facing Iraq,” reaffirming “the independence of Iraq’s decision‑making and the prevention of external interference,” and highlighting “the importance of unity and cohesion within the Coordination Framework as a key pillar of stability in the country.”

Regarding regional developments, al‑Hakim emphasized “the importance of exerting efforts to prioritize dialogue over escalation in the region,” calling for “more rounds of talks to bring different parties closer together.”