ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has congratulated Iraq’s prime minister-designate Ali Al-Zaidi on his appointment and expressed commitment to further strengthening relations between the two countries.
In a post on his official X account, Shehbaz Sharif congratulated Al-Zaidi and expressed Pakistan’s desire to strengthen bilateral ties. Closer cooperation with Iraq was sought by Pakistan, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said on Saturday, following the nomination of a new Iraqi prime minister-designate.
The statement was issued after Iraqi President Nizar Amede nominated businessman Ali Al-Zaidi as prime minister-designate earlier this week.
Al-Zaidi was tasked with forming a cabinet within 30 days amid ongoing political disagreements in Iraq.
The nomination followed months of political deadlock linked to rival blocs and foreign policy divisions.
Enhanced cooperation in peace, stability, and regional development was emphasized by the Pakistani prime minister.
Iraq has faced prolonged political balancing between influence from the United States and Iran since the 2003 invasion led by the US.
Efforts to form a government have also been shaped by tensions over armed groups backed by Iran and their presence in Iraq.
The new leadership is expected to address long-standing US concerns over the disarmament of such groups.
Some of these groups have previously targeted US interests in Iraq during regional conflicts, including diplomatic and energy installations.
The United States has carried out strikes against militant positions in Iraq in response to such attacks.
A phone call between Al-Zaidi and US President Donald Trump was also reported, during which congratulations were extended over his nomination.
A formal invitation to visit Washington after government formation was also conveyed, according to Iraqi officials.
Strategic bilateral relations and regional stability were discussed between the two sides.
Trump also publicly welcomed the nomination and expressed hopes for a “terrorism-free” government and improved bilateral relations.
