Al-Maliki: Iraq is keen to involve American companies in infrastructure and housing projects

Baghdad - INA

The head of the State of Law Coalition, Nouri al-Maliki, confirmed today, Tuesday, Iraq's keenness to involve American companies in the field of infrastructure, housing and banking projects, while the US Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for Middle Eastern Affairs, Victoria Taylor, praised Iraq's pivotal role in the region.

Al-Maliki's office said in a statement - received by the Iraqi News Agency (INA): "The head of the State of Law Coalition, Nouri al-Maliki, received in his office today, the US Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for Middle Eastern Affairs, Victoria Taylor," indicating that "many issues of common interest were discussed during the meeting, most notably strengthening bilateral relations between Iraq and the United States, and prospects for cooperation in various fields."

Al-Maliki stressed "the importance of the partnership between Iraq and the United States, which contributes to supporting stability and development in the country," stressing "the necessity that the partnership not be limited to security and military aspects, but rather in all sectors and fields by activating the strategic framework agreement signed by Iraq with the United States in 2008, which includes a large area in the fields of culture, economy, energy, health, environment, information technology and communications, as well as security and defense."

Al-Maliki pointed out that "Iraq continues the process of construction and reconstruction, and is keen to involve American companies in the field of infrastructure projects, housing and banks, as well as energy, industry and other fields, due to the great and diverse expertise that American companies possess," stressing "respect for Iraqi sovereignty and strengthening constructive dialogue to achieve common interests between the two sides."

For her part, the US Deputy Assistant Secretary of State stressed "the United States' commitment to supporting Iraq in its efforts to achieve security and stability," praising "Iraq's pivotal role in the region and its efforts to enhance regional dialogue and resolve conflicts."