The Prime Minister of Uzbekistan received the Minister of Trade of Iraq

The meeting between Prime Minister of Uzbekistan Abdulla Aripov and Iraqi Minister of Trade Mustafa Nizar al-Ani took place on the sidelines of the 5th Tashkent International Investment Forum.

The Iraqi delegation included the Director General of the Department of Foreign Economic Relations, a representative of the Civil Aviation Authority, the Chairman of the Economic Council, and several Iraqi entrepreneurs and investors.

During the meeting, Abdulla Aripov conveyed congratulations and best wishes to Prime Minister of Iraq Ali Falih al-Zaidi on the formation of the new government. The Prime Minister of Uzbekistan expressed confidence in the successful implementation of Iraq's economic and development programs, as well as in the further strengthening of cooperation with friendly countries. He emphasized Uzbekistan's interest in further developing economic and trade relations with Iraq and elevating them to a qualitatively new level. The Prime Minister of Uzbekistan noted the importance of completing the establishment of the Joint Trade Committee and holding its first meeting in Tashkent, emphasizing that Iraq is one of Uzbekistan's key economic partners in the Middle East.

Abdulla Aripov also expressed interest in expanding industrial and investment cooperation with the Uzbek private sector. In particular, he noted the importance of exploring the possibility of establishing electrical equipment and product manufacturing facilities in Iraq. He stated that this would facilitate the exchange of experience, create new jobs, and develop industry.

In turn, Iraqi Trade Minister Mustafa Nizar al-Ani stated that the government is interested in diversifying economic partnerships and expanding trade and investment cooperation with fraternal states. He noted that Iraq offers promising conditions for investment in various manufacturing and industrial sectors.

The minister emphasized the importance of strengthening logistics ties between the two countries and proposed establishing direct air service between Iraq and Uzbekistan. He believed this would facilitate the movement of entrepreneurs, investors, and tourists, increase trade, and strengthen economic ties. This initiative attracted the interest of the Uzbek side.

During the meeting, the parties also discussed enhancing interaction between the private sectors of the two countries, as well as encouraging entrepreneurs to implement joint projects and develop partnerships.

Furthermore, the Iraqi Minister of Commerce officially invited the Uzbek side to actively participate in the next Baghdad International Exhibition. He noted that this event represents an important platform for Uzbek companies, where they can present their products and services and discuss prospects for cooperation with representatives of the Iraqi public and private sectors.

Following the meeting, the Prime Minister of Uzbekistan instructed the development of mechanisms to simplify visa procedures for Iraqi investors, entrepreneurs, and tourists. It was noted that these steps will contribute to expanding cooperation in trade, investment, and tourism, as well as further strengthening economic relations between the two countries.