Iraq's al-Zaydi meets Trump at White House to reset bilateral ties

BAGHDAD, Iraq — Iraqi Prime Minister Ali Falih al-Zaydi met US President Donald Trump at the White House for a wide-ranging summit that shifted the focus of bilateral relations from military cooperation to economic and strategic partnership. Energy, investment and trade took center stage in the talks, according to statements from both sides. Al-Zaydi said Iraqi security forces had reached a level capable of assuming full responsibility for protecting the country, and outlined a plan to consolidate weapons under state control and end the dual structure in Iraq's security decision-making. He also reported that weapons had been collected from some armed groups and that the process of placing arms under official institutions would be completed. Trump said the United States no longer saw a justification for maintaining a military presence in Iraq, and that the priority was expanding the footprint of American companies, particularly in the energy sector. He added that a major oil partnership and commercial agreements would be announced in the coming days. The Iraqi side renewed its call for US companies to participate in oil, gas and infrastructure projects. Regional developments and relations with Iran were also discussed, with Iraq stressing it would continue a policy of balance and protect its national interests amid regional tensions. The talks came as the international coalition's mission in Iraq is scheduled to end in late September.