Iraqi Prime Minister Ali Al-Zaidi met with U.S. President Donald Trump at the White House on Tuesday, marking his first overseas visit since taking office. Leading an official delegation, Al-Zaidi's week-long visit aims to strengthen economic and investment ties between Baghdad and Washington.
The Iraqi PM's office stated that the visit focuses on expanding economic partnerships, attracting American investments, and boosting U.S. involvement in infrastructure projects, alongside developing the energy sector, one of Iraq's key economic components.
Security issues, particularly regarding Iran-backed militias, are expected to top the agenda amid ongoing U.S. pressure on Baghdad to consolidate weapons solely in the hands of the state. The Iraqi government has set a deadline at the end of September for armed groups to surrender their arms, coinciding with the conclusion of the U.S.-led coalition's mission in Iraq.
Prior to the visit, Al-Zaidi asserted in an article for The Washington Post that his government is committed to state monopolization of military force, emphasizing Iraq's choice for development and stability over regional conflicts and alignments.
The Associated Press cited a Trump administration official stating that Washington's future cooperation with Baghdad hinges on the Iraqi government's success in disarming Iran-backed militias.
Al-Zaidi, a businessman turned politician, emerged as a consensus figure following months of political deadlock after parliamentary elections. Since assuming office, he launched an extensive anti-corruption campaign, involving raids and arrests of current and former officials and lawmakers on corruption charges, a move he claims is part of a comprehensive reform plan to rebuild state institutions and restore investor confidence.