Baghdad: Former Iraqi Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki has expressed his intention to cultivate 'balanced political, economic, and security' relationships with regional countries and major global powers, emphasizing the importance of respecting national sovereignty and democratic choices, as reported by the Iraqi news agency INA.

According to Anadolu Agency, al-Maliki highlighted Iraq's journey towards political and democratic stability, which was achieved 'after a violent birth and great sacrifices.' He noted that these efforts have led to the strengthening of democratic values and the peaceful transition of power at both federal and provincial levels. Al-Maliki asserted that successive elections have demonstrated the Iraqi people's commitment to democracy, freedom, and political partnership. He emphasized, 'We will not abandon this achievement, nor will we compromise the Iraqi people's right to choose those they trust and see as competent to lead the next stage.'

Al-Maliki further underscored the importance of respecting Iraq's independent national decision-making processes. He stated, 'We respect our national will and our independent decision, and we expect others to respect this decision as we respect their will in managing their own affairs.' He also emphasized that forming Iraq's government and selecting its leadership is a sovereign matter. Iraq aims to build 'balanced political, economic, and security relations with all regional countries and major powers, especially those that have cooperated with us and those that will cooperate with us in the future, based on partnership and shared interests, away from any interference.'

Al-Maliki reaffirmed his commitment to respecting Iraq's democratic process and the people's right to select their political system and leadership through constitutional institutions. He stated that Iraq 'will not retreat from it.'

On January 24, Iraq's Coordination Framework announced Nouri al-Maliki's nomination for the post of prime minister, a decision made by a majority vote. Earlier this week, US President Donald Trump urged Iraq to refrain from appointing al-Maliki as prime minister. Al-Maliki rejected the call, labeling it 'blatant interference' in Iraq's internal affairs and reaffirming his candidacy.