President Zardari in Iraq for talks on trade, energy, manpower

President Asif Ali Zardari arrived in Iraq on Sunday for a three-day official visit ending December 24, aimed at strengthening bilateral cooperation across key sectors.

During the visit, the president is scheduled to hold meetings with the Iraqi leadership to review bilateral relations and explore ways to expand cooperation in priority areas.

According to officials, discussions will focus on trade and investment, energy cooperation, post-conflict reconstruction, manpower collaboration, technology, education, and enhanced people-to-people contacts.

The president was received on arrival by Iraqi Minister of Culture and Tourism Dr Ahmad Fakkak al-Badrani, Pakistan’s Ambassador to Iraq Muhammad Zeeshan Ahmed, and other senior officials.

A statement issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said the visit reflects the longstanding and cordial ties between Pakistan and Iraq, rooted in shared religious and cultural bonds and mutual respect.

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Separately, the President’s Secretariat said Zardari expressed solidarity with Iran after his aircraft entered Iranian airspace en route from Islamabad to Baghdad.

The message was conveyed to Iran’s Supreme Leader and President, the statement added.