Pezeshkian’s Trip to Iraq: Redefining Economic and Security Relations
WANA (Sep 13) – The first international visit of Iran’s President, Dr. Masoud Pezeshkian, to Iraq sent a clear message to the region and extra-regional powers: Iran continues to prioritise strengthening ties with its neighbours. This trip, originally planned during the late President Ebrahim Raisi’s tenure, underscores the continuity of Iran’s foreign policy, which remains unchanged despite the transition in leadership.
Iraq was chosen as Dr. Pezeshkian’s first foreign destination due to its geopolitical and economic significance for Iran. Situated in the “Fertile Crescent,” a region rich in natural resources, including water and energy, Iraq is considered a vital partner for Iran. Hussein Haji, an expert on West Asia, stated, “Iraq, with its vast economic capacities, can become a hub for expanding trade relations between the two countries.”
President Masoud Pezeshkian joint presser with Iraqi PM – 11 Sep 2024 – President office / WANA News Agency
One of the key objectives of this trip was to follow up on security and economic agreements signed in recent years. The 2021 security pact, though a major step towards ensuring regional security, requires further reinforcement and full implementation. Through his visit to Iraq, Dr. Pezeshkian aimed to address existing challenges and pave the way for smoother economic exchanges. “If political and security stability in the region is not strengthened, achieving economic goals will be difficult,” says Hussein Haji.
In addition to the security dimension, economic considerations were also of significant importance. Current economic exchanges between Iran and Iraq are estimated to be around $10 to $12 billion, but projections suggest this capacity could increase to $40 billion. Dr. Pezeshkian’s presence in Iraq accelerated this process, with efforts made to sign new economic agreements. Experts believe these collaborations could boost financial flow and improve the economies of both countries.
Masoud Pezeshkian’s Visit to Iraq: A Chance for an Economic Leap in Iran-Iraq Relations
WANA (Sep 11) – The recent visit of Iran’s president to Iraq took place at a time when relations between the two countries have entered a new phase. This visit is seen as a significant opportunity to strengthen commercial and economic interactions between Tehran and Baghdad. Choosing Iraq as the first foreign destination highlights the […]
However, Iraq’s importance for Iran is not limited to its economic potential. Iraq’s strategic position enables it to play a more prominent role in the Arab world and contribute to fostering unity among Arab countries.
Iran remains committed to regional integration and prioritising its neighbours. Given the region’s sensitive conditions and Iraq’s crucial role, this trip can be considered a significant step towards strengthening stable and constructive relations between the two nations.
Seyed Abbas Araqchi signing of a Memorandum of Understanding during President Pezashkian’s trip to Iraq – 11 Sep 2024 – President office / WANA News Agency
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