Baghdad: US Special Envoy for Iraq and Syria Tom Barrack and Iraqi Prime Minister Ali Al-Zaidi discussed Baghdad's ongoing efforts to place all weapons under exclusive state control, according to a joint statement. The discussions took place during their meeting on Monday, as stated in the release by the US Embassy in Baghdad on Tuesday. According to Anadolu Agency, the meeting addressed "the shared aspirational vision for the Iraqi government to build a brighter future free from terrorism," along with plans to disarm and disband armed groups outside state control. The focus was on consolidating all weapons under government authority and strengthening sovereignty to avoid regional conflict. "Prime Minister Al-Zaidi and Special Presidential Envoy Barrack underscored the urgency in full completion of these efforts," the statement said. Both officials reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening trade and investment ties. They welcomed steps such as a Starlink license, discussions with Chevron on major oil fi elds, the return of US energy firms under security guarantees, and plans with TI Capital to restore the Kirkuk-Baniyas pipeline. Cooperation on Iraq's energy needs was also highlighted, including an LNG import terminal project at Khor Zubair. The statement emphasized the importance of supporting a "strong, sovereign, and united federal democratic Iraq," ensuring full equality for all citizens to strengthen Iraq's unity, stability, and prosperity. "President Trump looks forward to welcoming Prime Minister Al-Zaidi to the White House in mid-July to discuss the future of this important relationship," Barrack conveyed during the meeting.