Iraq’s PM, Syria’s president emphasize 'new chapter' in bilateral ties
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The Iraqi PM highlighted the necessity of mutual cooperation in countering the threat of the Islamic State (IS) terrorist group and strengthening economic collaboration.
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Syria's interim President Ahmad al-Sharaa delivers a speech in Damascus on March 29, 2025 (AFP)
Syrian interim President Ahmad al-Sharaa emphasized the importance of forging a new chapter in his country’s relations with Iraq during a phone call with Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammad Shia al-Sudani.
The two leaders spoke on Tuesday, coinciding with the final day of Eid al-Fitr, the holiday which marks the conclusion of the month of Ramadan.
According to the Syrian Arab News Agency (SANA), their discussion focused on strengthening bilateral relations and maintaining robust economic ties between Syria and Iraq.
Both al-Sharaa and al-Sudani underscored the necessity of advancing their countries’ relationship by prioritizing joint efforts to tackle regional challenges and mitigate tensions, SANA reported.
The conversation covered key issues such as enhancing border security, combating drug smuggling, and coordinating efforts to ensure regional stability.
According to a statement from the Iraqi premier's media office, received by the Iraqi News Agency (INA), al-Sudani reaffirmed Iraq’s rejection of Israeli incursions into Syrian territory and expressed unwavering support for Syria’s unity, sovereignty, and territorial integrity, underscoring Baghdad's opposition to all foreign interventions.
The Iraqi prime minister also highlighted the necessity of mutual cooperation in countering the threat of the Islamic State (IS) terrorist group and strengthening economic collaboration, recognizing the shared opportunities and common interests between the two nations.
Al-Sudani extended his congratulations to the Syrian people on the formation of their new government and reiterated Iraq’s firm stance in backing their choices.
He also "stressed the importance of ensuring that the political process includes all national components of Syrian society, and that it moves toward peaceful coexistence and social stability—for a secure and stable future for Syria and the region as a whole."
In addition, he exchanged Eid al-Fitr greetings with al-Sharaa, reaffirming Iraq’s continued support for Syria’s stability and sovereignty.
Iraq reaffirmed its support for Syria’s newly formed transitional government this week, emphasizing its commitment to upholding its neighbor’s security and sovereignty.
Al-Sharaa reiterated his respect for Iraq’s sovereignty, vowing to refrain from any interference in its internal affairs, according to SANA.
Al-Shibani says Syria ready to cooperate with Iraq in combating IS
In mid-March, Syria’s interim foreign minister, Asaad al-Shibani, visited Iraq, marking his first trip to the country since the offensive that ousted Bashar al-Assad.
Relations between Syria and Iraq have grown increasingly complex following al-Assad’s removal, as the former Syrian leader maintained close ties with Baghdad’s government.
During his visit to Baghdad, al-Shibani held talks with his Iraqi counterpart, Fuad Hussein, according to the official Iraqi News Agency.
During a joint press conference, al-Shibani expressed Syria's readiness to "reinforce cooperation" with Iraq in combating the remnants of the Islamic State (IS) terrorist group.
"Security is a shared responsibility," al-Shibani emphasized, adding, "We are ready to reinforce cooperation with Iraq in the fight against Daesh (an Arabic acronym for IS) along the whole length of the border. Terrorism knows no borders."
For his part, Hussein also addressed concerns over the recent mass killings of civilians in Syria’s coastal region, predominantly targeting the Alawite minority. He expressed hope that the investigation launched by Syria’s new authorities would yield "tangible results" in fostering civil peace.
