Iraq PM Ali Faleh al-Zidi seeks U.S. investment during UN visit

Iraqi Prime Minister Ali Faleh al-Zidi is conducting a diplomatic visit to New York to participate in the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly. During the visit, al-Zidi met with members of the American Chamber of Commerce to encourage U.S. companies to invest in Iraq’s growing economy.

Al-Zidi highlighted several sectors for potential partnership, including petrochemicals, glass and phosphate manufacturing, gas, and clean energy. He noted that the Iraqi government offers incentives such as land ownership for investment projects and tax and customs exemptions lasting up to ten years. He also emphasized the importance of the ‘Development Road’ railway project, which aims to connect East and West.

In separate discussions with the U.S. Secretary of State, officials focused on elevating the U.S.-Iraq relationship to a strategic partnership. The talks covered regional security, economic stability, and the development of the oil industry. The Iraqi government has expressed ambitions to increase its daily crude oil production to 10 million barrels by 2030 and seeks to ensure sustainable diplomatic solutions to secure global energy supplies.