Pakistan, Iraq agree on economic, security collaboration

December 22, 2025 (MLN): Pakistan and Iraq agreed to move ahead with practical steps to expand bilateral cooperation, including efforts to raise trade volumes and establish direct banking channels.

The two sides also discussed easing arrangements for Pakistani pilgrims during talks between President Asif Ali Zardari and Iraq’s caretaker Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani at the Government Palace on Monday.

The understanding shows a push by both sides to translate political goodwill into measurable economic and institutional outcomes, as current trade levels were acknowledged to be well below potential. 

President Zardari said Pakistan is ready to expand cooperation in priority sectors such as information technology, agriculture and food security, construction, pharmaceuticals and medicines, according to the press release. 

He also stressed the importance of direct banking links to facilitate trade, business interaction and pilgrim movement.

Pilgrim related matters featured prominently in the discussions. President Zardari called for the early finalisation of a memorandum of understanding on Zaireen management and improved facilitation at immigration points.

He also urged greater flexibility in emergency travel cases and steps to address difficulties faced by genuine pilgrims.

The two sides also reviewed defence cooperation, with President Zardari expressing satisfaction over progress in bilateral defence ties, including ongoing training programmes and completed defence deliveries. 

He conveyed Pakistan’s willingness to further strengthen defence collaboration in line with Iraq’s requirements and evolving security needs.

President Zardari highlighted Pakistan’s capacity to support Iraq’s reconstruction through the provision of skilled manpower, medical professionals and technical expertise in areas such as financial services and digital governance. 

He referred to the existing manpower transmission framework as a mechanism to enable structured and welfare-oriented deployment.

Economic engagement beyond government channels was also discussed. 

President Zardari referred to Pakistan’s participation in major trade and health exhibitions in Baghdad.

He encouraged closer coordination between chambers of commerce and private sectors of both countries through regular exchanges and virtual interaction to strengthen business-to-business links.

Both leaders agreed on the importance of maintaining regular high-level exchanges and using institutional channels to carry forward bilateral engagement. 

President Zardari thanked the Iraqi government for the hospitality extended during his visit and congratulated the Iraqi people on the completion of the parliamentary election process.

He conveyed best wishes for a smooth political transition and continuity in Iraq’s development efforts.

Prime Minister Al-Sudani welcomed Pakistan’s proposals and appreciated its continued support. 

Senator Sherry Rehman, Senator Saleem Mandviwala, Punjab Governor Sardar Saleem Haider Khan and Pakistan’s Ambassador to Iraq accompanied the President.

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