The Iraq-US economic cooperation agenda is set to receive fresh attention as Prime Minister Ali Falih al-Zaidi prepares for an official visit to the United States. The trip will include a group of Iraqi business leaders, highlighting the government’s focus on attracting investment and expanding commercial partnerships. Officials view the visit as an opportunity to strengthen economic ties and encourage greater private-sector involvement in national development.
Al-Zaidi announced the plan during a meeting with prominent business figures, banking executives, and representatives of economic organizations. The gathering focused on ways to support private enterprise and improve the business environment across Iraq. During the discussions, the prime minister emphasized the importance of collaboration between government institutions and the private sector.
According to al-Zaidi, Iraqi business leaders will join the delegation to explore new investment opportunities and build relationships with American companies. He said stronger partnerships could help generate economic growth and create jobs in multiple sectors. The government hopes these efforts will encourage more foreign investment while opening new markets for Iraqi businesses.
The prime minister described private companies as essential partners in the country’s development strategy. He noted that sustainable economic progress requires active participation from entrepreneurs, investors, and financial institutions. For that reason, the government continues to seek policies that support business expansion and encourage innovation.
A major theme of the meeting centered on improving the investment climate. Al-Zaidi reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to addressing obstacles that affect business activity. He also pledged to confront corruption and extortion practices that discourage investment and undermine confidence in the market.
Officials believe stronger cooperation with the private sector can accelerate economic reforms. A healthy business environment often attracts capital, creates employment opportunities, and boosts productivity. As Iraq works to diversify its economy, policymakers increasingly view private enterprise as a driver of long-term growth.
The Iraq-US economic cooperation initiative also includes plans for new financial support mechanisms. Al-Zaidi revealed that the government intends to establish a development fund dedicated to private-sector growth. The proposed fund would receive a $10 billion contribution from the Central Bank of Iraq.
Under the plan, citizens would have the opportunity to subscribe to the fund and participate in its returns. The government also intends to exempt profits from taxation, making the initiative more attractive to investors. Officials hope these incentives will encourage broader participation and increase capital available for economic projects.
Business leaders welcomed discussions about financial support and investment opportunities. Many see improved access to funding as a critical factor for expanding operations and launching new ventures. Greater access to capital could help companies grow while supporting wider economic activity.
The upcoming visit reflects Iraq’s broader effort to deepen international partnerships and strengthen investor confidence. By bringing business leaders into diplomatic and economic discussions, the government aims to create practical opportunities for cooperation. If successful, the Iraq-US economic cooperation strategy could help attract investment, stimulate growth, and support Iraq’s long-term economic ambitions.