Baghdad: Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shiaa al-Sudani and US Secretary of State Marco Rubio engaged in a phone conversation on Tuesday, focusing on American commercial ventures in Iraq and regional security challenges, as reported by the State Department.
According to Anadolu Agency, the dialogue between Rubio and Sudani centered on efforts to finalize US trade agreements within Iraq. In the conversation, Rubio extended his congratulations to the Iraqi Prime Minister for resuming oil exports through the Iraq-Trkiye Pipeline. He noted that this development is anticipated to benefit businesses in Iraq, Trkiye, and the United States.
Rubio emphasized the critical need to disarm Iran-backed militias, which are seen as undermining Iraq's sovereignty and posing threats to both American and Iraqi interests. He also pointed out the risk of these militias diverting Iraqi resources to Iran.
The US Secretary of State reiterated Washington's dedication to collaborating with Iraqi partners on mutual objectives, which include the protection of Iraqi sovereignty, the enhancement of regional stability, and the expansion of economic cooperation.