Iraqi Prime Minister Mustafa al-Kadhimi announced that his country is seeking to adopt all measures that enhance the policy of de-escalation in the region, as well as to continue promoting reforms, combating corruption, bolstering internal security, and creating a suitable environment attractive for investment. Al-Kadhimi's statements came during his meeting on Wednesday with U.S. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi as part of his current visit to Washington.
The two sides discussed ways to strengthen cooperation between Iraq and the United States across various economic levels and the prospects for joint political coordination, as well as cooperation in the fields of education, culture, investment, and others, according to al-Kadhimi's media office. Pelosi welcomed al-Kadhimi’s visit to the United States and Congress, affirming that "the members of the council support the steps and initiatives of al-Kadhimi's government and its growing role in enhancing regional security and stability," in addition to Congress supporting the Iraqi government's efforts to ensure the success of the upcoming October elections.
She emphasized the importance of continuing bilateral cooperation in combating the COVID-19 pandemic and the ongoing support of the United States for the Iraqi people by contributing to the provision of vaccines.
**Biden and Al-Kadhimi Agreement**
It is noteworthy that U.S. President Joe Biden and Iraqi Prime Minister al-Kadhimi signed an agreement on Monday that officially ends the U.S. combat mission in Iraq by the end of 2021; however, U.S. forces will remain there in an advisory role. Biden, alongside al-Kadhimi, stated, "We will not be engaged in a combat mission in Iraq by the end of the year," but "our cooperation against terrorism will continue even in this new phase we are exploring," clarifying that the role of U.S. military personnel in Iraq will be limited to training Iraqi forces and assisting them in countering ISIS.
For his part, al-Kadhimi stated that the relationship between the two countries has become "stronger than ever," expressing his happiness for "the continued cooperation between the two countries." Biden and al-Kadhimi met in the Oval Office for their first direct discussions as part of the strategic dialogue between the United States and Iraq.
**Protection of Coalition Members**
It is worth mentioning that both the U.S. and Iraqi governments emphasized in the joint closing statement of the fourth round of strategic dialogue between Baghdad and Washington on Monday the commitment of Iraq to protect international coalition members who provide advice and training. They also reiterated their commitment to the principles agreed upon in the Strategic Framework Agreement and that the United States respects Iraq's sovereignty and laws.
