Iraqi Prime Minister Affirms Government's Commitment to Keeping Weapons in the Hands of Constitutional Institutions

Iraqi Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi said on Friday that his government’s priorities are to ensure that the state retains the authority to make decisions regarding peace and war, and that weapons and instruments of force remain under the control of its constitutional institutions.

He made these remarks in Iraq’s address, delivered by al-Zaidi during the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York, noting that the executive measures in this area “are based on law and national interest in building a state of institutions, protecting sovereignty, and consolidating stability.”

Al-Zaidi indicated that with the conclusion of the international coalition’s mission in Iraq, the country’s relations with its “strategic” partners will shift from military cooperation to economic and developmental cooperation “in a manner that serves mutual interests.”

On the regional front, al-Zaidi expressed Iraq’s concern over the repercussions related to freedom of navigation and maritime transit, and the resulting global energy price crisis. He noted that Iraq is working to diversify its oil export outlets and develop energy lines and corridors linking Iraq, Turkey, Jordan, and Syria, extending to global markets.