Iraq's Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi and US envoy Tom Barrack discuss expanding trade, investment and commercial partnerships, alongside regional stability and diplomatic cooperation.
Iraqi Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi has met US Special Presidential Envoy Tom Barrack in Baghdad to discuss strengthening economic relations, expanding commercial partnerships and attracting greater American investment into Iraq. The November 5 meeting focused on opportunities to deepen bilateral cooperation, encourage private-sector participation and support Iraq's economic development through increased engagement with US companies.
According to a statement from the Iraqi Prime Minister's Media Office, the discussions covered bilateral relations, prospects for strengthening the strategic partnership and expanding economic and investment cooperation for mutual benefit. Both sides also discussed regional developments and the importance of reducing tensions through diplomatic engagement.
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The meeting took place hours after Prime Minister Al-Zaidi held discussions with representatives of US-based energy company ExxonMobil. During that engagement, he reiterated his government's commitment to attracting foreign investment and facilitating business operations for international companies. Baghdad has adopted an open-door approach towards foreign investors, with particular emphasis on strengthening commercial engagement with American businesses across key economic sectors.
Al-Zaidi has previously indicated that Iraq's oil, electricity and communications ministries have been directed to prioritise opportunities for American companies interested in investing in these industries. The government is seeking international expertise, technology and capital to support infrastructure development, improve industrial capabilities and expand economic opportunities.
US envoy Tom Barrack welcomed the meeting in a statement shared on social media, describing Iraq's approach under Al-Zaidi as a shift towards greater sovereignty, investment and international partnerships. He said Washington was committed to deepening economic and commercial ties, creating opportunities for American companies and Iraqi talent, and supporting prosperity through stronger bilateral engagement. Barrack also highlighted the importance of regional governments working together to contain crises and prioritise diplomacy over escalation.
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The discussions follow a broader effort by both countries to expand economic cooperation beyond traditional security-related engagement. During Al-Zaidi's visit to Washington in July 2026, the US Chamber of Commerce hosted a US-Iraq Business Summit that resulted in the announcement and signing of more than 50 agreements and memorandums of understanding involving American companies and the Iraqi government. The proposed deals were valued at more than US$60 billion and covered sectors including energy, technology, healthcare and infrastructure.
Regional security also featured in the latest discussions. Al-Zaidi reiterated Iraq's position that its territory should not be used as a launchpad for attacks against neighbouring countries. He also held a telephone conversation with US President Donald Trump on the same day, discussing regional developments and the importance of coordination and diplomatic solutions.
The engagement reflects continued efforts by Baghdad and Washington to build a broader economic partnership, with investment, trade and private-sector cooperation forming important areas of bilateral engagement.