Foreign Minister: Iraq is working to achieve self-sufficiency and energy independence.

Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein affirmed on Saturday that Iraq is working towards achieving energy self-sufficiency and independence, while expressing his regret that a number of Western countries continue to classify Iraq as a high-risk country.

This came during his meeting with US Senators Angus King, an independent from Maine, and James Lankford, a Republican from Oklahoma, according to a statement issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

The statement quoted Hussein as saying that Iraqi-American relations are strategic, extending from partnership in the war on terrorism to cooperation in reconstruction and enhancing stability in the region, as well as other vital areas, including energy and education.

He also noted Iraq's aspiration to expand the horizons of these relations and increase the presence of American companies to take advantage of promising investment opportunities and contribute to construction and development efforts.

In a related context, the minister affirmed that Iraq is working rapidly to achieve self-sufficiency and energy independence by investing in associated gas, enhancing electricity interconnection projects with neighboring countries, and exploring new gas fields. This will position it as a gas-producing country, in addition to being a major oil producer. In this context, he called on specialized American companies to invest in this strategic sector.

He also pointed out that Iraq is set to hold its sixth legislative elections in November of this year, reflecting the consolidation of the democratic experience among the population and contributing to achieving stability and reconstruction.

Hussein expressed his regret that a number of Western countries continue to classify Iraq as a high-risk country in travel advisories for their citizens, which negatively impacts foreign companies' entry opportunities and hinders the development of tourism and cultural exchange.

On the other hand, the two sides affirmed that the terrorist organization ISIS continues to pose a significant threat to countries in the region and the world alike, and emphasized the importance of unifying international efforts to eliminate it and prevent its return.

They also discussed developments in the ongoing negotiations between the United States and Iran, agreeing that dialogue is the best way to resolve outstanding issues, achieve stability, and avoid escalation and confrontation.

In conclusion, the two parties affirmed their support for a political process in Syria that ensures the establishment of a comprehensive democratic process that reflects the aspirations of the Syrian people and leads to the formation of an elected government that represents the various components of society and protects their rights.  link