Iraqi Foreign Minister Mr. Fuad Hussein paid an official visit to the Kingdom of Morocco from January 5 to 8, 2025, at the invitation of his Moroccan counterpart, Mr. Nasser Bourita. This visit comes within the framework of strengthening bilateral relations between the two brotherly countries and developing prospects for cooperation in various fields.
During the visit, the two ministers held a series of meetings with a number of Moroccan officials, including the President of the House of Representatives, Mr. Rashid Al-Tali Al-Alami, and the Minister of Economy and Finance, Ms. Nadia Fettah. The two sides discussed ways to enhance and develop bilateral relations, with a focus on economic and investment areas.
The ministers emphasized the importance of strengthening economic and trade cooperation between the two countries and activating joint work mechanisms through the convening of the eleventh session of the Iraqi-Moroccan Joint Committee in Baghdad. They also agreed to strengthen the institutional framework for cooperation between Morocco and Iraq and to have the joint ministerial committee chaired at the level of foreign ministers.
The ministers stressed the importance of the fraternal relations that bind the two countries and affirmed the need to leverage available opportunities to enhance these relations and expand their horizons. They also agreed to encourage cooperation between private sector business leaders in both countries and to explore available investment opportunities.
In the context of international support, Iraq reaffirmed its steadfast support for Morocco’s position in favor of its territorial integrity and the autonomy plan for the Sahara. The ministers also praised the signing of a memorandum of understanding for the mutual exemption of entry visas for diplomatic passport holders, as an important step towards consolidating bilateral relations.
On the regional level, the ministers discussed Arab and international issues and emphasized the importance of maintaining the security and stability of the Arab region and respecting the sovereignty and territorial integrity of its states. They also expressed their rejection of any interference in the internal affairs of Arab countries.
Regarding the Palestinian issue, the ministers reiterated their support for the legitimate rights of the Palestinian people, including their right to establish an independent state with Jerusalem as its capital. They called for respect for the ceasefire agreement in the Gaza Strip, the release of Palestinian prisoners, and the entry of humanitarian aid.
The Iraqi minister also praised the ongoing efforts of King Mohammed VI, Chairman of the Al-Quds Committee, in supporting the Palestinian cause and defending the city of Jerusalem. He commended Morocco’s pioneering role in promoting sustainable development and peace in the African continent.
The Moroccan minister expressed his wishes for Iraq’s success in hosting the Arab Summit in its thirty-fourth session scheduled to be held in Baghdad in 2025, affirming Morocco’s active contribution to the summit’s proceedings.
In conclusion, this visit represents an important step in strengthening bilateral relations between Morocco and Iraq and opening new horizons for cooperation in various fields, reflecting the shared aspirations of the two brotherly peoples.