In a rare visit, Italian prime minister Giorgia Merloni arrived at the Salam Presidential Palace in Baghdad. Iraqi President Dr. Abdullatif Jamal Rashid greeted the Italian premier.
The leaders discussed ways to improve their mutual interests, strengthen the already established cooperation.
President Rashid highlighted the importance of existing ties between Iraq and Italy, the necessity for effort and collaboration to strengthen them, and the fact that Italy is a partner to Iraq on many critical challenges.
He also discussed the security and political stability that the nation is currently experiencing following the formation of the new government, which set forth an ambitious ministerial program based on moving forward with significant infrastructure projects, improving the living and service conditions that directly affect citizens, working to support the private sector by creating the necessary infrastructure and legislation, and opening the door to investment.
President Rashid praised the international coalition, especially Italy, for helping Iraq in its fight against terrorism. He also emphasized the defeat of terrorist groups at the hands of the Iraqi security forces.
He continued that many areas of coordination and cooperation between Iraq and Italy can be improved, such as the fields of economics, culture, and tourism, citing the Pope of the Vatican's visit to Iraq and how well it won the hearts of Iraqis while also painting an accurate picture of the country's stable conditions.
The effects of terrorism must be addressed by resettling those displaced, cultural cooperation must be fostered through sharing experiences, and concerted efforts must be made to counter the dangers of climate change and its resulting crises of water scarcity and desertification.
The Italian Prime Minister praised the improvements Iraq is undergoing in terms of security and politics, reiterating her nation's desire to deepen relations with Iraq at all levels and pledging support for the country's security and stability as well as its sovereignty and the safety of its citizens. She also emphasized the significance of an Iraq that is strong and effective in promoting regional stability.
Following his visit to Baghdad, the Meloni flew to the Kurdistan region where she met with Kurdish leaders and discussed many shared issues.