Iraq's PM Sudani meets Trump at White House to discuss security, energy ties

WASHINGTON, United States — WASHINGTON — Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia' al-Sudani met U.S. President Donald Trump at the White House for wide-ranging talks on military cooperation and a broader shift toward economic and strategic partnership. The two leaders discussed launching a new phase of collaboration in energy, investment and trade, according to statements released after the meeting. The visit comes as the U.S.-led international coalition prepares to conclude its mission in Iraq by the end of September. Trump said he no longer sees a requirement for continued American military presence in the country and announced that major oil partnerships and commercial agreements with U.S. companies would be unveiled in the coming days. Sudani affirmed that Iraqi security forces have reached a level capable of assuming responsibility for protecting the country and reiterated Baghdad's commitment to consolidating weapons under state control and ending the parallel security structure. He said weapons have been collected from certain armed groups and that the process will be completed under official state institutions. The Iraqi government called on U.S. companies to invest in oil, natural gas and infrastructure projects, with plans to raise production and diversify energy sources. Regional developments, relations with Iran and sanctions on Tehran were also discussed, with Baghdad stressing a balanced policy aimed at safeguarding national interests.