President Zardari Calls to Boost Pakistan–Iraq Trade, Offers Skilled Workforce

Baghdad: President of Pakistan Asif Ali Zardari has offered Pakistan’s skilled workforce for Iraq’s reconstruction and development, while calling for enhanced cooperation in trade, investment, agriculture, defence production, and information technology.

The offer was made during President Zardari’s meeting with his Iraqi counterpart President Abdul Latif Jamal Rashid at Baghdad Palace, where the Pakistani president was accorded a guard of honour. The two leaders held a one-on-one meeting followed by delegation-level talks, and the Iraqi president hosted a luncheon in honour of President Zardari and his delegation.

President Zardari thanked the Iraqi leadership and people for the warm reception and congratulated Iraq on its successful parliamentary elections. He reaffirmed Pakistan’s full support for Iraq’s sovereignty, territorial integrity, and stability, and expressed satisfaction over the positive trajectory of bilateral relations.

Highlighting that current Pakistan–Iraq trade volume does not reflect true potential, President Zardari urged closer collaboration in multiple sectors. He offered Pakistani expertise and manpower for Iraq’s development and expressed readiness to cooperate in healthcare, finance, and digital governance. He also requested early completion of an MoU on better facilities and management for Pakistani pilgrims.

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Both sides agreed to take joint measures against illegal entry and overstaying, and reaffirmed their commitment to combating terrorism, extremism, and narcotics. They also agreed to maintain close coordination at regional and international forums, including the United Nations and the OIC. The Iraqi president appreciated Pakistan’s role in promoting Islamic unity and its support for the Palestinian people.

Separately, President Zardari met the Iraqi caretaker Prime Minister, with both sides agreeing to expand cooperation in trade and defence. President Zardari emphasized increasing bilateral trade and offered collaboration in IT, agriculture, construction, and pharmaceuticals, while discussions were also held on establishing direct banking channels and continuing cooperation in defence training and equipment.