27-8-2023 (KUALA LUMPUR) Malaysia is set to reopen its embassy in Iraq, a move that comes two decades after its closure due to unrest in the region. The revival of diplomatic relations is part of the results achieved during Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Dr Zambry Abdul Kadir’s historic visit to Iraq from August 23 to August 25.
This official ministerial visit, the first of its kind to Iraq since 2002, holds great promise for both nations. Besides reopening the embassy, Malaysia and Iraq have agreed to explore diverse areas of cooperation, particularly in the fields of the economy, education, aviation links, and tourism.
During the visit, Minister Zambry conveyed Malaysia’s decision to reopen the embassy to the Iraqi government. This decision was well-received and symbolizes the beginning of a new chapter in the diplomatic ties between the two nations.
Throughout his visit, Minister Zambry held fruitful discussions with high-ranking Iraqi officials, including President Abdul Latif Rashid, Prime Minister Mohammed Shia’ Al Sudani, and Parliament Speaker Mohammed Al-Halbousi.
Addressing the economic aspect of their collaboration, Minister Zambry emphasized Malaysia’s keenness to expand trade and investment opportunities between the two countries. This includes enhancing exports of furniture, pharmaceutical products, electrical and electronic items, and commodities to Iraq. In the realm of investments, Iraq expressed its readiness to welcome Malaysian companies for infrastructure projects aimed at the reconstruction of Iraq.
Minister Zambry also touched upon the operational status of PETRONAS in Iraq and explored further opportunities in the energy sector that PETRONAS could delve into.
Additionally, both nations reached an agreement to facilitate high-level visits and expedite the Joint Commission Meeting (JCM) between Malaysia and Iraq, which had been postponed since 2005.
The talks also highlighted their intention to collaborate on construction projects, airport management, road systems, and water resource management. Malaysia and Iraq committed to enhancing educational cooperation by fostering the exchange of teaching staff, researchers, and students.
To bolster their tourism sectors, both countries are working towards creating a more robust and efficient air network. Notably, Iraqi Airways is preparing to initiate regular flights to Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA), a development that will foster tourism between the two nations.
Iraq has requested Malaysia to share its expertise and experience in rebuilding the country, underscoring the growing synergy between the two nations. Additionally, Malaysia, Iraq, and Turkey are poised to play a more influential role in addressing issues related to Islamophobia.
Minister Zambry’s visit exemplifies the unity government’s commitment, led by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, to strengthen bilateral relations with Islamic countries, including Iraq. It is a testament to the growing prospects for collaboration and shared progress between Malaysia and Iraq.
