PETALING JAYA: Malaysia is set to reopen its embassy in Iraq after twenty years of closure due to unrest, according to Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Dr Zambry Abdul Kadir. This announcement comes following Zambry’s historic visit to Iraq from Aug 23 to Aug 25, which marks the first official ministerial visit to Iraq since 2002. During the visit, Zambry also met with Iraqi President Abdul Latif Rashid, Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia’ Al Sudani, and Iraqi Parliament Speaker Mohammed Al-Halbousi to discuss various matters of cooperation.
In addition to reopening the embassy, Malaysia and Iraq have agreed to explore areas of cooperation in economy, education, air links, and tourism. Zambry expressed Malaysia’s willingness to enhance trade and investment between the two countries, specifically in the areas of furniture, pharmaceutical products, electrical and electronic products, and commodities exports to Iraq. He also discussed the operational status of PETRONAS in Iraq and the potential opportunities in the energy sector.
The meeting between Malaysian and Iraqi officials also resulted in the decision to encourage high-level visits between the two countries and to immediately implement the Joint Commission Meeting (JCM) that has been postponed since 2005. Zambry highlighted Iraq’s interest in Malaysia’s experience and expertise to aid in the reconstruction of the country. Moreover, Malaysia, Iraq, and Turkiye have pledged to play a more significant role in addressing Islamophobia.
Furthermore, Iraq’s national carrier, Iraqi Airways, is expected to begin regular flights to Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA). Malaysia welcomes this development as it seeks to expand its air network and boost the tourism sector. Iraq has also requested Malaysia’s assistance in construction projects, airport management, road systems, and water resource management. Additionally, the two nations have agreed to enhance cooperation in the field of education through the exchange of teaching staff, researchers, and students across various disciplines.
Credit: The Star : News Feed
