Iraqi PM, US president discuss regional security

President Donald Trump welcomes Iraqi Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi during a meeting in the Oval Office at the White House in Washington, D.C., where the two leaders discussed expanding economic cooperation, energy investment and the future of U.S.-Iraq relations. Baghdad (IraqiNews.com) – Iraqi Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi and US President Donald Trump discussed on Thursday the latest developments in the region, security issues, and prospects for the next phase. During a phone conversation, the two sides discussed measures to promote regional stability, as well as cooperation between Iraq and the United States that addresses current challenges. To manage crises, reduce tensions, and stop the conflict from getting worse, both sides stressed the need to prioritize dialogue and diplomacy, according to a statement released by the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO). To protect the security of the region and the stability of citizens, al-Zaidi reaffirmed Iraq’s commitment to respecting state sovereignty, avoiding the use of its territory to attack neighboring countries, and adopting peaceful solutions and constructive dialogue. Additionally, to improve bilateral relations and advance shared interests, both parties stressed the significance of continuing communication and coordinating views on matters of shared concern. The phone call comes in the wake of shocking losses for the Republican Party in the US midterm elections, putting Trump under more pressure to handle the complexities of the Middle East and the ongoing discussions over the Strait of Hormuz.