Iraq’s Sudani says strategic ties with Syria continue, security key
QAMISHLI, Syria (North Press) – Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia’ al-Sudani said on Saturday Baghdad maintains ongoing relations with Damascus based on a shared strategic interest, confirming continued coordination on security, counterterrorism, and economic cooperation.
In an interview with Al-Mayadin TV, Sudani said Iraq and Syria have established a bilateral security coordination committee that remains active, noting sustained communication between the two sides.
He stressed that Baghdad has urged Damascus to work toward a comprehensive political process that includes all components of Syrian society, alongside a clear stance rejecting terrorism, ISIS, and extremism.
Sudani reaffirmed Iraq’s commitment to Syria’s unity and territorial integrity, highlighting significant opportunities to revive economic cooperation, including the proposed Kirkuk–Baniyas oil pipeline for crude exports.
On security, the Iraqi prime minister said he continues to closely monitor developments in Syria, warning of the growing activity of ISIS cells.
He emphasized that Iraq is a member of the U.S.-led Global Coalition to counter terrorism and remains engaged in regional efforts to curb extremist threats.
Sudani also noted to joint Iraqi-Syrian operations to combat drug trafficking, confirming that coordinated missions have been carried out inside Syrian territory as part of broader security cooperation.