Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian is set to make his first foreign visit to Iraq on Wednesday, leading a high-level political and economic delegation. This visit comes in response to an invitation from Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani and underscores the significance of Iraq in Iran's foreign policy. Pezeshkian has previously expressed that Tehran attaches great importance to Iraq, particularly in terms of religious ties and economic cooperation. During this visit, it is expected that several memoranda of understanding will be signed between the two nations, further solidifying their relationship.
Security concerns are a dominant theme of Pezeshkian's visit, as Iran aims to address ongoing threats from groups operating in the region. The Iranian government is keen on discussing the implementation of security agreements related to Kurdish opposition groups and the potential withdrawal of American forces from Iraq. This visit signifies a strategic pivot in Iran's foreign relations, especially in light of the ongoing geopolitical tensions in the region.
Economically, the Iranian delegation will focus on enhancing trade relations, with an ambition to double the current trade balance from $10 billion to $20 billion. This includes discussions on the completion of the Shalamcheh-Basra railway project, which is crucial for linking Iranian and Iraqi transportation routes. Additionally, the Iranian government is expected to address issues surrounding outstanding payments for electricity and gas exports to Iraq, as these are vital for maintaining economic stability between the two nations.
Pezeshkian's visit is seen as a pivotal moment in Iran's foreign policy, particularly as it transitions from a conservative to a reformist approach. Experts suggest that this visit could pave the way for improved relations not only with Iraq but also with other regional players, including Gulf states. The overarching goal for Iran appears to be establishing a balanced presence in the region while ensuring that Iraqi interests align with those of Tehran.
- The relationship between Iran and Iraq has been historically complex, shaped by shared borders and cultural ties. After the U.S. invasion of Iraq two decades ago, Iran has sought to bolster its influence in the country, viewing it as a strategic ally in countering Western sanctions and military presence. Pezeshkian’s visit reflects a continuation of this strategy, aiming to strengthen bilateral ties amidst regional challenges.
- Iranian officials have emphasized that this visit is not just about politics but also about cultural and religious connections, with Pezeshkian expressing his desire to visit holy shrines in Iraq. This highlights the multifaceted nature of Iran-Iraq relations, which encompass not only economic and security dimensions but also deep-rooted cultural links.
- As Pezeshkian prepares for this visit, the dynamics within Iraq itself are also crucial. Various Iraqi factions hold differing views on Iran's influence, and the Iraqi government aims to navigate these complexities while maintaining its sovereignty. The outcome of Pezeshkian’s discussions could significantly impact Iraq's foreign policy direction, particularly concerning its relationships with the U.S. and regional powers.
