Baghdad and Damascus Agree to Form Committees for Enhanced Cooperation in Energy, Agriculture, Water, and Transport

Iraq's Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein and Syria's Asaad Al-Shibani agreed Monday to form joint committees aimed at enhancing cooperation in energy, agriculture, water, and transport sectors. A Foreign Ministry statement reported that Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein met his Syrian counterpart, Asaad Hassan Al-Shibani, in Damascus, attended by Energy Minister Mohammad Bashir. Both sides discussed strengthening bilateral ties and developing joint cooperation across various fields. They agreed to establish a specialized committee for energy, agriculture, water, transport, and border crossings, fostering mutual cooperation and reinforcing shared interests. They also consented to forming a high committee for joint coordination, led by both foreign ministers, to oversee bilateral cooperation outcomes and coordinate efforts in all areas. Discussions covered energy supply transfer and transit mechanisms, and the project to rehabilitate oil pipelines from Iraq to Syria. Cooperation in water and agriculture aims to enhance joint food security, economic integration, and mutual interests. The two sides also discussed bolstering security coordination and joint cooperation, supporting both nations' security and regional stability, and strengthening efforts to confront common challenges.