New Delhi, May 17: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday congratulated Ali Falih Kadhim al-Zaidi on assuming office as the new Prime Minister of Iraq, expressing India’s commitment to deepening its long-standing partnership with Baghdad.
In a message posted on X, PM Modi said, “Heartiest congratulations to Ali Falih Kadhim al-Zaidi on assuming office as Prime Minister of Iraq. India highly values its longstanding and friendly ties with Iraq and remains firmly committed to further strengthening our bilateral relations in all areas. I extend my best wishes to him and look forward to working together for the shared progress and prosperity of our two nations.”
Global leaders also welcomed al-Zaidi’s appointment.
US Ambassador to Türkiye and Special Envoy for Syria, Tom Barrack, congratulated the Iraqi leader on securing parliamentary confidence and the approval of his cabinet by the Council of Representatives.
“We are encouraged by your fresh leadership and look forward to collaborating on a bold new agenda aligned with our shared interests — building a sovereign, prosperous, stable Iraq, at peace with its neighbours, that delivers growth and opportunity for all its citizens in a mutually beneficial partnership with the United States,” Barrack said in a statement.
He added that “President Trump, Secretary Rubio, and the United States stand ready to work closely with you and your government to advance our shared goals of prosperity for the Iraqi people and the elimination of terrorism, which remains an impediment to progress.”
Iraq’s parliament approved al-Zaidi’s government on May 14. The new Prime Minister has pledged to enforce state authority, including a monopoly on weapons, at a time when Washington is urging Baghdad to rein in Iran-backed armed groups, according to EuroNews.
Al-Zaidi’s leadership marks a significant political transition in Iraq as the nation seeks stability, economic recovery, and balanced relations with regional and global partners.