Pakistan, Iraqi president pledge deeper cooperation during Baghdad talks

ISLAMABAD: Pakistani President Asif Ali Zardari met with Iraqi President Abdul Latif Jamal Rashid at Baghdad Palace on Sunday to discuss bilateral relations, according to an official statement released by the presidential office.

President Zardari received a guard of honor upon arrival. The two leaders held a one-on-one meeting followed by delegation-level talks. The Iraqi president also hosted a lunch for President Zardari and his delegation.

President Zardari congratulated the Iraqi president on the country’s recent parliamentary elections. He said Pakistan supports Iraq's sovereignty, territorial integrity and national unity.

The leaders reviewed bilateral relations and noted recent high-level exchanges, including the ninth session of the Pakistan-Iraq Joint Ministerial Commission.

The Pakistani president said that current trade levels do not reflect the potential of Pakistan-Iraq relations. He cited opportunities in trade, investment, agriculture, defense production, information technology, construction and pharmaceuticals.

He called for stronger business engagement, trade delegations and direct banking channels.

Pakistan offered to support Iraq's reconstruction through skilled and semi-skilled workers under an existing agreement. President Zardari said Pakistan could also provide support in medical services, financial expertise and digital governance.

He requested improved facilitation for Pakistani pilgrims visiting Iraq and urged finalization of an agreement on pilgrim management. He said Pakistan will work with Iraq to prevent illegal entry and overstay by Pakistani nationals.

Both presidents agreed to cooperate against extremism, terrorism and narcotics trafficking. They said they will coordinate at the United Nations and the Organization of Islamic Cooperation.

The Iraqi president said he appreciated Pakistan's role in the Islamic world and its support for Palestinians.

Zardari was accompanied by Senators Sherry Rehman and Saleem Mandviwala, Punjab Governor Sardar Saleem Haider Khan, Sindh Senior Minister Sharjeel Inam Memon, Sindh Minister Syed Nasir Hussain Shah, former Senate Chairman Syed Nayyer Hussain Bukhari and Pakistan's ambassador to Iraq.