Iraq's PM al-Ziyadi meets Hikma leader Ammar al-Hakim to discuss anti-corruption drive

BAGHDAD, Iraq — Prime Minister Ali Falah al-Ziyadi met on Sunday with Ammar al-Hakim, head of the National Hikma Movement, to discuss political, security and economic developments along with Iraq's anti-corruption efforts, the Prime Minister's press office said. The meeting, held as part of ongoing coordination between Iraq's political blocs, reviewed the implementation of the government program and the continuation of anti-corruption procedures. Al-Ziyadi stressed the need to reinforce the rule of law to safeguard public resources, according to the statement. Hakim, for his part, welcomed the government's anti-corruption measures and underlined the importance of pursuing them within established legal and institutional frameworks. Both sides also discussed completing the formation of the cabinet and reaffirmed support for the government's reform process, the statement added. Talks also covered addressing the financial crisis through diversified revenue sources and increased oil exports, as well as the importance of building balanced regional and international partnerships. The two officials reviewed the successful completion of the Arbaeen commemorations marking the 40th day after the martyrdom of Imam Hussein.