Iraq PM says country to serve as hub linking regional economic interests

BAGHDAD, Iraq — Prime Minister Ali Falih ez-Zeydi said on Monday his government is working to position Iraq as a hub linking the economic interests of regional countries. According to a written statement from his office, Zeydi made the remarks during a meeting with Abdolnaser Hemmati, governor of the Central Bank of Iran. The meeting in Baghdad was also attended by the prime minister's office director, the governor of the Central Bank of Iraq, a group of advisers and Iran's ambassador to Iraq. Discussions focused on the financial and monetary challenges facing regional economies amid current regional conditions. Zeydi said the government aims to make Iraq a platform where the economic and development interests of regional countries converge, adding that this would support efforts to reinforce stability and end conflicts. No further details on specific initiatives or timelines were provided in the statement.