On March 5, a telephone conversation took place between President Serdar Berdimuhamedov and the Prime Minister of the Republic of Iraq, Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani.

The interlocutors warmly greeted each other and sincerely congratulated one another, as well as the friendly peoples of both countries, on the beginning of the holy month of Oraza, wishing that the prayers offered during this blessed month would be accepted by the Almighty.

The President of Turkmenistan noted the fruitful nature of bilateral relations based on mutual respect, equality, and trust. He also conveyed his best wishes on behalf of the National Leader of the Turkmen people, Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan, Hero-Arkadag, and extended warm greetings to the President of the Republic of Iraq, Abdul Latif Rashid.

The Prime Minister of the friendly country, Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani, expressing gratitude for the kind words, conveyed heartfelt greetings from President Abdul Latif Rashid to the head of state. He emphasized that the Republic of Iraq highly values intergovernmental relations with Turkmenistan, which are built on the principles of friendship and brotherhood.

As noted during the conversation, Turkmen-Iraqi relations are currently developing across a wide range of areas. Their foundation lies in the centuries-old ties between the two peoples, who share a common history, culture, and traditions. Turkmenistan and the Republic of Iraq continue to expand cooperation in political and diplomatic, trade and economic, cultural and humanitarian spheres, as well as in other areas.

In this regard, the head of state expressed his gratitude to the Republic of Iraq for its consistent support of Turkmenistan's foreign policy, which adheres to the legal status of permanent neutrality, and for its backing of initiatives put forward at the UN and other international organizations.

President Serdar Berdimuhamedov, emphasizing the need to intensify bilateral diplomatic relations, confirmed Turkmenistan’s readiness to provide comprehensive assistance in creating favorable conditions for the opening of a diplomatic mission of the Republic of Iraq in Ashgabat and ensuring its effective work.

As noted, Turkmenistan strictly follows its policy of exporting its energy resources to global markets through diversification. In this context, it was highlighted that two years ago, Turkmenistan and Iraq began joint work in the gas sector by reaching an agreement on the annual supply of 10 billion cubic meters of Turkmen natural gas to the Republic of Iraq under a SWAP scheme through the territory of neighboring Iran.

Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani, confirming the Republic of Iraq’s readiness to further strengthen cooperation in this area, stated that the necessary work is being carried out for this purpose.

During the conversation, President Serdar Berdimuhamedov announced that on December 12, an international forum will be held in Ashgabat to mark the UN General Assembly's proclamation of 2025 as the “International Year of Peace and Trust” at the initiative of Turkmenistan, as well as the 30th anniversary of Turkmenistan’s permanent neutrality. He invited Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani to participate in this prestigious conference.

The head of the government of the friendly country, gratefully accepting the invitation, stated that it would be a great honor for him to take part in these events. He also emphasized the great importance of Turkmenistan’s international initiatives aimed at ensuring global peace and sustainable development.

The parties also exchanged views on other areas of bilateral cooperation of mutual interest.

At the conclusion of the conversation, President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov and Prime Minister of the Republic of Iraq Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani expressed confidence that the mutually beneficial intergovernmental dialogue would continue to develop for the benefit of the friendly peoples of both countries. They extended their best wishes to each other.

Source: State News Agency of Turkmenistan