Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani confirmed on Thursday that Iraq is experiencing a distinguished phase in its relations with Spain, with a mutual desire to enhance and develop these relations in all fields.
In an interview with the Spanish newspaper "El Mundo," Al-Sudani explained that "Spain is part of the international coalition that helped Iraq eliminate the terrorist ISIS, and at our request, the mission of the international coalition will end within two years after the reasons for its presence are no longer valid.
He confirmed that "the capabilities of the Iraqi security apparatus have reached an advanced stage, and there is political stability that has positively reflected on the general situation in the country.
He pointed out that "Iraq's relations with the United States are institutional according to the strategic framework agreement, and we are in contact with Trump's team, which wants to develop relations with Iraq.
Regarding the conflict in the region, Al-Sudani said, "The ceasefire agreement in Lebanon is an important event, and we hope it extends to the Gaza Strip to enhance regional stability." He touched on Iraq's stance on the Palestinian issue, confirming that "Iraq's laws stipulate non-recognition of the Zionist entity, and that the Palestinians are the rightful owners of the land and the cause, and they are the ones who determine the solution to their issue.
The Prime Minister confirmed that "there are Spanish companies operating in Iraq, especially in the railway and transportation sector, and we are keen to attract more of them due to their efficiency and experience in implementing projects.
He pointed out that "several memorandums of understanding will be signed with Spain, with a financial ceiling ranging from 200 million euros to 1 billion euros to cover projects implemented by the private sectors of both Iraq and Spain.
In this context, Al-Sudani announced that "a $250 million railway project has been awarded to a Spanish company, and negotiations are underway with another Spanish company to implement the high-speed train project between the provinces of Najaf and Karbala.
Yesterday, Wednesday, Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani headed to Spain on an official visit, following an official invitation from his Spanish counterpart, Pedro Sanchez.