PM Modi congratulates Iraq’s new PM Ali al-Zaidi, says India committed to stronger ties

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday congratulated Ali Falih Kadhim al-Zaidi on taking charge as Iraq’s Prime Minister, saying India deeply values its longstanding and friendly ties with Iraq and remains committed to further strengthening bilateral relations between the two countries.

Al-Zaidi, a businessman, emerged as a consensus choice for the top post after weeks of discussions among parties within Iraq’s Coordination Framework alliance to identify a compromise candidate to head the country’s next government.

Diplomatic endorsement of the new leadership

The official outreach from New Delhi emphasized a spirit of goodwill and professional regard for the incoming Iraqi head of government. Prime Minister Modi welcomed the transition, stating, “Heartiest congratulations to Ali Falih Kadhim al-Zaidi on assuming office as Prime Minister of Iraq. India highly values its longstanding and friendly ties with Iraq and remains firmly committed to further strengthening our bilateral ties in all areas.”

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This statement underscores the priority India places on its relationship with Iraq, which serves as a cornerstone of regional trade and energy security for the South Asian republic.

The emergence of a consensus government

The appointment of al-Zaidi, an established figure from the business community, marks the end of a prolonged period of political uncertainty within Iraq. His selection was the result of weeks of vigorous internal debate among the member parties of the Coordination Framework, who eventually identified him as a compromise candidate capable of leading a unified government.

The legislative transition was formalised on Thursday when the Iraqi Parliament voted to approve the official government programme and a significant portion of the Prime Minister’s cabinet lineup, providing the new administration with a clear mandate to begin its term.

Shared goals for regional prosperity

Looking ahead, the Indian government expressed a clear desire for active engagement with the al-Zaidi administration to foster economic growth and mutual development. By framing the relationship as a shared endeavour, the Prime Minister highlighted a vision for a future defined by collaborative success.

“I extend my best wishes to him and look forward to working together for the shared progress and prosperity of our two nations,” the Prime Minister added.

As the new leadership in Baghdad begins the work of implementing its domestic reforms, this prompt recognition from India serves to reinforce the enduring friendship and practical cooperation that has long existed between the two peoples.