Iraq values Azerbaijan’s role in regional and global politics, proposes consulate in Erbil

On May 7, during a joint press conference with Azerbaijani Foreign Minister Jeyhun Bayramov in Iraq, Fuad Hussein, Iraq's Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, emphasised the longstanding ties between Iraq and Azerbaijan, dating back to the Soviet era. 

Hussein highlighted the geographic and cultural closeness between the two countries, noting that both are located in the same region and share similar religious and cultural backgrounds, which naturally strengthens their relationship, Caliber.Az reports, citing local media.

"Relations between Iraq and Azerbaijan are not new; they have roots dating back to the Soviet period. Geographically, Azerbaijan is close to Iraq. We are in the same region and share cultural and religious ties, which makes our relationship stronger," he said.

Hussein went on to discuss the growing focus on trade and economic cooperation between the two countries. "Today, we are building our trade and economic relations," he stated, emphasising that both Iraq and Azerbaijan are keen on developing these aspects further.

The two foreign ministers also addressed a range of issues on the bilateral agenda during the visit. Hussein specifically praised Azerbaijan’s role on the global stage, saying, “Iraq highly values Azerbaijan's role in many areas, including both regional and global politics.”

He also noted Azerbaijan's leadership within the Non-Aligned Movement and highlighted the significance of Baku hosting the COP29 climate conference, underlining the nation’s increasing influence and contribution to global governance. "Azerbaijan plays a vital role in the Non-Aligned Movement, and its hosting of the COP29 climate conference in Baku is an important milestone," Hussein said.

In another significant development, Hussein announced that Iraq had extended an offer for Azerbaijan to open a consulate general in Erbil, the capital of the Kurdistan region.

"Iraq has proposed to Azerbaijan the opening of a consulate in Erbil, and this has been confirmed. The consulate will be opened," Hussein said during the press conference.

By Tamilla Hasanova