Iraqi PM Sudani meets GCC chief, receives Gulf leaders' congratulations on cabinet

BAGHDAD, Iraq — Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia' al-Sudani on Monday received Gulf Cooperation Council Secretary-General Jasem Mohamed Albudaiwi and an accompanying delegation in Baghdad, the Iraqi government said. Albudaiwi delivered congratulatory messages from Gulf state leaders following the new Iraqi government's vote of confidence in parliament, according to a government statement. Sudani told the GCC chief that Iraq has entered a new phase focused on building a fully sovereign state, strengthening the rule of law and establishing a strong economy. He described Gulf countries as an Arab extension of Iraq and a strategic depth, adding that his government will prioritize reinforcing state institutions and expanding regional partnerships based on mutual respect. The two sides discussed ways to strengthen bilateral relations and broaden cooperation across multiple sectors, the statement said. Albudaiwi welcomed Iraq's reform agenda, including efforts to bolster the economy, combat corruption and consolidate weapons under state control, and expressed readiness to deepen cooperation in support of regional stability and development.