Iraqi PM makes first official visit to Iran since taking office

Pezeshkian and Al-Zaidi called for more effective use of the two countries’ shared potential in politics, economy, trade, transportation, energy and regional cooperation.

They said expanding Tehran-Baghdad relations across all fields would promote stability, security and prosperity in both countries while supporting regional solidarity and cooperation.

Shared borders, common interests

Al-Zaidi said the visit would include meetings with senior Iranian officials to discuss issues of mutual interest and strengthen bilateral cooperation.

“Today, we are heading to Tehran on an official visit. We will meet with senior officials of the Islamic Republic of Iran to discuss issues of mutual interest, bilateral cooperation, regional developments and ongoing efforts to consolidate security and stability across the region,” he said in a post on X.

“Iraq and Iran are bound by historic and civilisational ties, shared borders and common interests,” Al-Zaidi said.

He stressed the need to continue working in a spirit of “dialogue, cooperation and mutual respect” to promote sustainable development and prosperity for both peoples and support security and stability at the regional and international levels.

Al-Zaidi took office as Iraq’s prime minister in May after parliament approved his government.