Prime Minister Muhammad Shiaa Al-Sudani said: We were keen to build an independent and balanced foreign policy that targets cooperation and is based on converging viewpoints and commonalities.
He added in a speech he delivered at the United Nations: We were keen for Iraq to be a source of stability in its regional and international environment and part of the solution to any regional or international problem and to raise the potential for mutual understanding and cooperation.
He continued: We are exploring ways towards constructive partnerships based on the principles of mutual respect, motivating the participating parties, and helping in formulating policies that achieve sustainable development for our peace-loving peoples.
He said: The government of the Republic of Iraq affirms its commitment to the principles of international law, respect for all UN resolutions, and its determination to establish the best relations with everyone, especially neighboring countries.
He stressed his refusal to interfere in our country’s internal affairs under any pretext, and at a time when our constitution requires that Iraq not be a launching pad for aggression against other countries, we call on everyone to respect Iraq’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
He said: We reserve our right to take appropriate measures in accordance with what has been approved by international laws and conventions to deter any violation against our country.
He continued: We reiterate our emphasis on extending our hand to all neighboring countries in order to preserve the security and stability of our region and its economic progress and prosperity, in a way that achieves the well-being of its peoples.
He said that we aim to achieve regional integration, remove anything that hinders free trade in the region, and facilitate the movement of people, goods and capital across political borders.
He continued: We also aim to connect infrastructure together, which are factors that reduce the possibility of the outbreak of armed conflict in the future, and limit the escalation of conflicts to a large extent.
He said: We see the possibility of achieving economic integration through unifying and approaching economic policies, customs tariffs and laws, and linking economic infrastructure together through joint investment and presenting opportunities.
He added: We are working to organize the (Baghdad 2023) conference for economic integration and regional stability.
He said: We will not adopt the policy of axes as a path in our relations, but rather we deal with everyone according to our national interest.
He continued, “We are continuing to strengthen Iraq’s natural position in the arena of international cooperation, and doing everything that enhances stability.”/End
Source: National Iraqi News Agency