Iraq's Shiite Coordination Framework to hold meeting ahead of Washington visit

BAGHDAD, Iraq — Iraq's Shiite Coordination Framework is preparing to hold a key meeting ahead of a planned visit to Washington by Prime Minister Ali Fallah al-Zaydi, framework leader Amir Fayyaz said. He said the session will review the government's latest anti-corruption campaign and the economic, security and political files due to be discussed during the prime minister's U.S. trip. Fayyaz added that completing the cabinet lineup will also be on the agenda, with the file expected to be finalized after al-Zaydi returns from the visit. According to him, participants will also address weapons held outside state control, the integration of certain militias into official institutions, and regulatory steps regarding the Popular Mobilization Forces and the interior and defense ministries. Separately, the Iraqi government has continued corruption operations targeting civil servants, politicians and business figures. Al-Zaydi is set to make an official visit to the United States in the coming period. Fayyaz did not specify a date for the framework's meeting or additional details of the prime minister's planned Washington agenda.