Putin, Iraqi PM discuss multifaceted cooperation, regional stability in phone call

Russian President Vladimir Putin and Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia' Al-Sudani held a telephone conversation to discuss bilateral cooperation in multiple areas, including trade, transportation, and humanitarian efforts.

“They discussed pressing issues of bilateral cooperation in the trade-economic, transport-logistics, and humanitarian spheres. Particular attention was given to the implementation of large-scale energy projects. Both sides expressed their mutual commitment to further expanding traditionally friendly and mutually beneficial ties,” Caliber.Az reports, citing the Kremlin press service. 

The leaders also reviewed their joint efforts under the OPEC+ framework, emphasizing the importance of their collaboration in stabilizing global oil markets.

“Various aspects of joint work within the OPEC+ framework were discussed, which enable the maintenance of stability in the global oil market,” the Kremlin noted. “The importance of continuing to coordinate steps within this format was reaffirmed.”

The escalating tensions in the Middle East were another focal point of the conversation.

“Middle Eastern issues were also raised in light of the unprecedented escalation of tensions in the region,” the Kremlin said.

Both sides agreed to maintain contacts at various levels, strengthening their dialogue amid ongoing global and regional challenges.

Let's recall that in October, Putin hosted Sudani in the Kremlin amidst the conflict between Israel and Palestinian militants in Gaza that has seen hundreds killed on both sides since the weekend. Putin praised cooperation between their countries at the OPEC+ group of top oil producers, saying it had helped to stabilise energy markets. Sudani underlined Iraq's continued support for the Palestinian cause and urged Russia to use its status as a permanent member of the UN Security Council to help halt Israel's strikes against the Palestinian Territories.

By Khagan Isayev