Economy News – Baghdad
Farhad Aladdin, the Prime Minister’s Adviser for Foreign Relations, has affirmed that there are no existing US sanctions on the Rafidain Bank, while confirming that the exemption for importing gas from Iran remains in effect.
During a televised interview, Aladdin emphasized Iraq’s capability in managing its foreign relations, stating, “Iraq has a legacy in this regard.” He further highlighted that Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani’s foreign policy prioritizes Iraqi interests, thus guiding the nation’s diplomatic approach.
Aladdin indicated that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs operates with a clear focus on Iraq’s best interests in mind.
Discussing Iraq’s relations with the United States, he noted, “We enjoyed strong and distinct ties with the previous US administration.” He acknowledged that the current administration has arrived with specific commitments to American voters, including a focus on concluding what is termed ‘endless wars,’ which could influence foreign policy decisions.
Aladdin clarified that the portrayal of Iraqi-US relations in the media does not reflect the actual discourse. Citing US Congressman Joe Wilson’s previous 200 tweets that excluded any mention of Iraq, he remarked, “This narrative changed only after he began tweeting about Iraq daily post-January 13.”
He reiterated that US authorities have denied any involvement or connection to Joe Wilson’s statements regarding Iraq. Furthermore, Aladdin stated that the US Treasury Department has indicated no intention to sanction the Rafidain Bank, noting ongoing collaborative efforts by American companies to assist in restructuring the bank.
Emphasizing Iraq’s shifted status, he remarked, “Iraq has not been a US priority since 2011,” and underscored efforts to reshape perceptions so that Iraq is seen beyond the Iranian context.
Regarding the US exemption for energy imports from Iran, Aladdin elaborated that while the exception for electric imports may be withdrawn, the gas exemption will still persist. Additionally, he noted that Turkey has begun importing gas from Turkmenistan via Iran in light of US sanctions.
Aladdin further discussed Iraq’s commercial relationship with China, highlighting that 25% of Iraq’s oil is purchased by China, which signifies both nations’ mutual economic interests. He reiterated that these ties are rooted in commerce rather than politics.
Addressing relations with Saudi Arabia, he confirmed that ties are currently at their strongest, and noted that the development of Iraq’s relationship with Qatar is welcomed by Saudi authorities.
He concluded by stating, “Iraq is re-establishing its role within the Arab community more than ever,” indicating a transformation from a conflict zone to a diplomatic meeting point for regional countries.
Aladdin emphasized that Iraq’s developmental trajectory is positioning it as a convergence point for regional interests, playing a pivotal role in mediating relations between Iran and the United States, particularly concerning developments in Syria.
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