US Treasury Secretary Affirms Support for Iraqi Policy, Offers Economic Aid

US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent affirmed Wednesday his country's support for the Iraqi government's policy, expressing Washington's readiness to set a timeline for economic support. This followed Prime Minister Ali Falih Al-Zaidi's reception of Bessent and his delegation Tuesday evening (Baghdad time) at his Washington residence, according to a statement from the Prime Minister's Media Office. Al-Zaidi emphasized that Iraq is in a new phase, striving to build a strong, sovereign, corruption-free state with a sustainable economy. He noted the government prioritizes combating corruption and state control over weapons through important measures. He indicated Iraqis would witness the results of these measures next year, with expected improvements in energy, investment, and enhanced stability. He stressed the government's commitment to implementing comprehensive reform and restructuring of the banking and insurance sectors, in addition to tax and customs reforms, to build a more efficient, sustainable economy. For his part, the US Treasury Secretary expressed his country's support for the Iraqi government's policy and its shift from a military presence to investment, economic development, and business growth, pursuing real economic growth by optimally leveraging Iraq's resources and potential. Bessent affirmed the United States' readiness to assist Iraq and enable it to implement its economic plans, overcome obstacles, and establish a timeline to boost the Iraqi economy and strengthen financial and economic reforms.