President Ahmed al-Sharaa and Iraqi Prime Minister Ali al-Faleh al-Zaidi discussed, during their meeting in Damascus, the enhancement of economic, commercial, and investment cooperation, the development of regional connectivity, and coordination in border security, serving mutual interests and preserving the security and stability of both countries.
The talks covered preparations for holding a joint Iraqi-Syrian economic conference, coordinated between the two countries, to gather investors and companies and discuss investment opportunities and priority projects in the energy, transport, agriculture, and trade sectors, translating understandings into practical cooperation programs.
Energy Projects and Trade Corridors
In the energy sector, both sides discussed the rehabilitation project of the Kirkuk-Baniyas pipeline, as a strategic opportunity to develop cooperation and provide an additional outlet for exporting Iraqi oil via Syrian ports on the Mediterranean Sea. The talks also addressed waterways and ways to develop international trade corridors, including northern and central land routes and through the Tanf area, and prospects for connectivity with Turkey, Saudi Arabia, and the port of Al-Faw and its route, contributing to expanding transit movement and facilitating the transfer of goods between countries in the region.
Security Coordination and Religious Visits
Regarding security matters, President al-Sharaa and the Iraqi Prime Minister discussed enhancing coordination concerning the shared border, exchanging information, combating terrorism, smuggling, and organized crime, and addressing existing tensions. The two sides also discussed arrangements for a visit by a high-level Iraqi security delegation to Syria, including the Minister of Defense and representatives from security agencies, border security authorities, and the Popular Mobilization Forces, to follow up on these files and develop cooperation mechanisms between competent authorities.
Regarding religious visits, the talks covered facilitating Iraqis' visits to the Sayyida Zainab shrine, and the formation of a committee to study necessary arrangements was proposed, to facilitate visits and ensure appropriate security conditions for receiving visitors and delegations. The meeting also addressed regional developments and ways to spare Syria and Iraq from the repercussions of any potential conflicts, through coordinating positions and prioritizing political and diplomatic solutions, and respecting the sovereignty and independent decision-making of states.
Source: Syrian Arab News Agency (SANA)
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