Rubio says Iraqi foreign minister sent positive signals to Washington

WASHINGTON, United States — WASHINGTON — US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said Iraqi Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein sent positive signals to Washington during recent contacts, indicating that a planned visit to the US is moving forward. Rubio said Iraq's sovereignty would be among the main topics on the agenda when the visit takes place, without giving a firm date. The US top diplomat said dialogue with Baghdad continues and that the two sides remain engaged in consultations. He said Washington is committed to the principle of non-interference in Iraq's internal affairs while remaining open to cooperation on issues of mutual interest. According to Rubio, security and economic ties between Washington and Baghdad have intensified in recent months, with energy, security and sovereignty expected to dominate the agenda. No further details on the timing of the visit were immediately available.