Parliament Speaker calls on China to take part in Iraqi economy
The Chinese national flag. Photo: Reuters
Baghdad (IraqiNews.com) – The First Deputy Speaker of the Iraqi Parliament, Mohsen Al-Mandalawi, called on Chinese companies to participate in the Iraqi economy.
Al-Mandalawi’s remarks took place during his meeting on Sunday with the Chinese Ambassador to Iraq, Cui Wei, and other Chinese officials, where they discussed strategies to strengthen bilateral relations between Baghdad and Beijing and boost cooperation in different fields, according to a statement cited by the state news agency.
Al-Mandalawi expressed the Iraqi Parliament’s full support for facilitating the work of reputable Chinese companies inside Iraq.
The First Deputy Speaker of the Iraqi Parliament called on China to take part in economic and investment opportunities in Iraq through Chinese companies known for their efficiency in completing strategic projects.
Al-Mandalawi also urged Chinese companies to complete the projects agreed upon between the two sides quickly, particularly the construction of 1,000 schools in Iraq.
The spokesperson of the Chinese Foreign Ministry, Wang Wenbin, said last week that China is committed to its friendly ties with Iraq and is actively taking part in the reconstruction process in Iraq.
“As a sincere friend of the Iraqi people, China has taken an active part in the economic reconstruction of Iraq and contributed to Iraq’s economic and social development, which is widely recognized by the Iraqi government and public,” Wenbin said.
The Chinese official added that China stands ready to continue working with Iraq for new progress in practical cooperation in various areas.
The Chinese Foreign Ministry said last month that Iraq is China’s important Belt and Road partner.
A Chinese official said that China closely follows Iraq’s security situation and is willing to increase cooperation with Iraq to ensure the safety and smooth progress of cooperation projects.
The Iraqi Foreign Ministry revealed last August that the trade exchange between the two countries was worth more than $48.5 billion in 2022.