Iraqi Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein said Iraq had suffered estimated financial losses of approximately $60 billion as a result of the recent war between the United States and Iran. He noted that the prolonged conflict had intensified pressure on global energy markets and raised concerns about mounting inflation and its impact on economies around the world, including those of European nations.
Hussein made the statement during talks on Thursday with Italian Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Antonio Tajani at the Italian Foreign Ministry in Rome. The meeting addressed ways to strengthen bilateral ties, expand cooperation, and exchange views on current regional and international issues.
The Iraqi foreign minister praised Italy’s support for Iraq in previous years, particularly its role in combating terrorism and defeating ISIS. He also commended Italy’s ongoing assistance in training federal police forces affiliated with Iraq’s Interior Ministry and Peshmerga forces in the Kurdistan Region.
According to a statement issued by Iraq’s Foreign Ministry, the discussions covered opportunities to deepen security and military cooperation in the coming period, amid developments related to the conclusion of the international coalition’s mission in Iraq. The officials also reviewed unresolved financial and military matters involving the Iraqi government and Italian companies, some of which date back to the former Iraqi regime.
The talks also examined the impact of the continuing Russia-Ukraine war on European security, alongside regional developments and their implications for Iraq and the Arab Gulf states.
Hussein emphasized the need for the European Union and European governments, particularly Italy, to play a more active role in promoting diplomatic initiatives, facilitating dialogue between conflicting parties, and encouraging a return to negotiations. Such efforts, he said, are essential to containing escalation and preventing the conflict from widening.
Tajani, in turn, highlighted the strength of relations between Iraq and Italy and reaffirmed his country’s commitment to supporting Iraq across various fields.
The meeting concluded with both sides agreeing to maintain coordination and communication on matters of mutual interest. Hussein also invited his Italian counterpart to visit Iraq.
