Iraq is seeking Italian investment to strengthen its energy and industrial sectors. Prime Minister Ali Falih al-Zaidi called on Italian companies to support Iraq’s broader development plans. He made the remarks during a meeting with Italy’s ambassador to Iraq, Niccolò Fontana.
The meeting took place at the Government Palace in Baghdad. Al-Zaidi and Fontana discussed bilateral relations and ways to expand economic cooperation. They also reviewed opportunities across energy, industry, agriculture, and infrastructure.
Iraq seeks Italian investment as Baghdad works to attract international expertise and expand its economic partnerships. The government wants stronger ties with Italy and other European Union countries. Officials also see European cooperation as a way to support technology transfers and long-term economic growth.
Energy remained one of the key areas discussed during the meeting. Iraq wants foreign companies to contribute modern technologies and technical expertise to major energy projects. Italian firms could also support efforts to improve infrastructure and develop new industrial opportunities.
Industry represents another important part of Baghdad’s investment strategy. The government wants to expand domestic manufacturing and reduce dependence on imported products. Italian engineering and industrial experience could help Iraqi companies improve production and develop new capabilities.
Agriculture also featured in the discussions between the two sides. Iraq faces growing pressure to improve water management and agricultural efficiency. Italian expertise could support modern irrigation systems and technologies that reduce water consumption.
The discussions also reflect Iraq’s wider effort to diversify its international economic relationships. Baghdad has traditionally relied heavily on oil revenues, while officials increasingly seek growth in other sectors. European companies could play an important role in developing those emerging economic areas.
Fontana reaffirmed Italy’s interest in strengthening cooperation with Iraq. He also highlighted the importance of expanding partnerships between businesses and institutions in both countries. Such cooperation could create new opportunities for investment, infrastructure development, and private-sector growth.
Iraq seeks Italian investment while pursuing a broader economic transformation beyond the oil sector. The government hopes foreign partnerships can bring capital, expertise, technology, and new business opportunities. These efforts could also strengthen Iraq’s commercial links with European and Mediterranean markets.
For Baghdad, closer economic relations with Italy could support several national priorities. These include modern infrastructure, stronger industries, improved agriculture, and more efficient energy systems. The government also wants international partnerships to create sustainable economic opportunities for Iraq.
Iraq seeks Italian investment as it works to build a more diversified and competitive economy. The success of these efforts will depend on investment conditions, project implementation, and cooperation between public and private sectors. Stronger partnerships with Italian companies could provide Iraq with valuable expertise for its long-term development goals.