Iraqi Prime Minister Ali Falih El-Zaidi's visit to Tehran produced concrete steps that deepened economic and strategic cooperation between the two countries. At a ceremony hosted by Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, four agreements were signed covering areas from transportation to public administration.
Baghdad-Tehran rail link planned
Among the signed memoranda, the most notable was for the development of a railway line connecting the Iranian cities of Kermanshah and Khosravi to Khanaqin and Baghdad in Iraq. This project is expected to strengthen regional transportation networks and give new momentum to passenger and freight transport.
The two countries also signed an agreement regulating international road freight transport. This step aims to facilitate commercial flow and improve logistics infrastructure.
Cooperation in municipal affairs and public administration
In addition to economic ties, steps were taken to boost institutional capacity. A memorandum of understanding was signed for cooperation between the municipalities of Baghdad and Tehran, along with another document on partnership in public administration and human resources training.
Security focus and joint committee
During talks between Prime Minister El-Zaidi and President Pezeshkian, the establishment of an operational framework to activate the Iraq-Iran Joint Economic Committee was also discussed. The two leaders said this platform will play a key role in coordinating future projects.
Security cooperation was also a significant part of the discussions. El-Zaidi stressed that Iraq would not allow its territory to be used for threats against Iran and referred to Iran's support for Iraq in the fight against ISIS. Pezeshkian highlighted the historical ties between the two peoples, saying regional security would create favorable conditions for economic development and that there are significant opportunities for joint investment.
El-Zaidi's visit to Tehran came immediately after his trip to the United States. The Baghdad administration continues to pursue a policy of balance in the power struggle between Washington and Tehran.
