King at Baghdad conference: Iraq’s prosperity is our prosperity

AMMAN (JT) — His Majesty King Abdullah on Saturday said the Baghdad Conference for Cooperation and Partnership is testament to Iraq’s central role in building bridges and bolstering regional and international dialogue.

Delivering remarks at the conference in Baghdad, King Abdullah noted Iraq’s efforts to fortify the state of institutions, governed by the constitution and the law, and stressed that supporting Iraq in these efforts is a priority for all, according to a Royal Court statement.

His Majesty noted that “a strong Iraq is a pillar for regional economic integration and creating an environment conducive to enhancing cooperation among countries in the region.”

“The security and stability of Iraq is integral to the security and stability of us all, and its prosperity is our prosperity,” the King added.

Following is the full text of the His Majesty’s remarks:

“In the Name of God, the Compassionate, the Merciful,

Prayers and peace be upon our Prophet Mohammad,

My brother, Prime Minister Mustafa Al Kadhimi,

Your Highnesses, Excellencies,

Peace, God’s mercy and blessings be upon you.

It is my pleasure to express my deep appreciation to my brother, Prime Minister Mustafa Al Kadhimi and to the people of the Republic of Iraq for the gracious hospitality and warm welcome, as well as to my friend, President Emmanuel Macron, for his efforts in organising this conference.

I am delighted to be here today, for the second time in two months, in Iraq, the land of civilisations.

Dear brothers,

Our meeting at this conference today is testament to Iraq’s central role in building bridges and bolstering regional and international dialogue, by adopting a policy of balance and openness based on mutual interests.

Our meeting also reflects our mutual keenness to support Iraq’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, and also support the Iraqi people on their path to further progress, development and prosperity.

For years, Iraq, with the engagement of all components of its society, has been working hard to fortify the state of institutions, governed by the constitution and the law, in order to achieve further progress and fulfil the hopes and aspirations of its people. Therefore, supporting Iraq in these efforts is a priority for us all.

And here, we express appreciation and support for the Iraqi government’s efforts over the past years in countering extremism and terrorism, as well as in rebuilding, and bolstering the unity and stability of the country.

The security and stability of Iraq is integral to the security and stability of us all, and its prosperity is our prosperity. A strong Iraq is a pillar for regional economic integration and creating an environment conducive to enhancing cooperation among countries in the region.

Brothers,

This summit is held at a crucial time, when the world is witnessing many political, security, and economic developments that have shed light on the nature of cross-border crises and challenges, such as food insecurity and the COVID pandemic repercussions. We cannot overcome these challenges without finding a common ground that brings perspectives closer, sets the tone for serious dialogue, and enhances cooperation and partnerships to face them.

In order to enhance regional and international cooperation among us, we must open the door to economic, industrial, and commercial integration, on the basis of cooperation and partnership, to achieve the best interest of all.

In conclusion, we renew our thanks to the Iraqi government, and to my dear brother Mustafa Al Kadhimi, for their efforts to promote further cooperation and encourage dialogue in service of our peoples and the region.

Peace, God’s mercy and blessings be upon you.”

The conference, which saw the participation of leaders and representatives from a number of countries, covered means of establishing sustainable economic and investment partnerships between Iraq and countries in the region, and addressed Iraq’s regional and international role.

Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi, Director of the Office of His Majesty Jafar Hassan, General Intelligence Department Director Maj. Gen. Ahmad Husni, and Jordan’s Ambassador to Iraq Montaser Oklah Alzoubi attended the conference on the Jordanian side.

His Majesty returned to Jordan on Saturday.