Pakistan and Iraq on Sunday reaffirmed their commitment to combat extremism, terrorism, and the narcotics trade.

The announcement came during a meeting between President Asif Ali Zardari and his Iraqi counterpart, Dr. Abdul Latif Jamal Rashid, at Baghdad Palace.

Both leaders reviewed bilateral relations and expressed satisfaction with the positive momentum generated by recent high-level interactions, including the 9th session of the Pakistan-Iraq Joint Ministerial Commission and parliamentary exchanges, according to a statement from the President’s Secretariat.

President Zardari reiterated Pakistan’s strong support for Iraq’s sovereignty, territorial integrity, and national unity, emphasizing the country’s commitment to Iraq’s stability, prosperity, and democratic progress. He congratulated the

Iraqi leadership and people on the successful parliamentary elections and extended best wishes for the smooth formation of the new government.

Highlighting economic potential, President Zardari noted that current trade levels did not reflect the full capacity of Pakistan-Iraq relations and emphasized opportunities in trade, investment, agriculture, defense production, IT, construction, pharmaceuticals, and related sectors. He stressed the importance of business-to-business engagement, reciprocal trade delegations, and establishing direct banking channels to facilitate commerce.

He also offered Pakistan’s support for Iraq’s reconstruction and development through the provision of skilled and semi-skilled manpower under the existing MoU on manpower transmission. Additionally, he highlighted Pakistan’s expertise in medical services, finance, and digital governance, offering technical assistance, including secure data management, to strengthen Iraq’s institutional capacities.

President Zardari requested improved facilitation for Pakistani pilgrims visiting Iraq and expressed hope for the early finalization of the proposed MoU on Zaireen Management to ensure organized travel and address long-standing issues related to religious visits. He also pledged cooperation with the Iraqi government to prevent illegal entry and overstays by Pakistanis violating Iraqi law.

The two leaders agreed to further deepen cooperation across political, economic, and social areas and to maintain close coordination in regional and multilateral forums, including the UN and OIC, on issues of mutual interest.
President Rashid appreciated Pakistan’s efforts in uniting the Islamic Ummah and its historical support for the people of Palestine.

Upon arrival, President Zardari was welcomed with a guard of honour, followed by an official ceremony, one-on-one discussions, delegation-level talks, and a luncheon hosted by President Rashid in his honor.