Lebanon's Mikati meets Iraq's president, PM in Baghdad

Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati arrived in Baghdad on Sunday for an official visit aimed at strengthening ties between Lebanon and Iraq. 

During his visit, Mikati was received by Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani, who underscored the critical need to halt the ongoing aggression against Lebanon and Palestine and to work towards preventing further regional escalation, according to a statement by Iraqi PM’s media office. 

The visit commenced with a formal reception at Baghdad Palace, where Mikati and his delegation were greeted with an honor guard review and the playing of the national anthems of Lebanon and Iraq. The delegation included Lebanese ministers from key sectors such as industry, energy, water, agriculture, and public works.

In their bilateral talks, Al-Sudani and Mikati focused on a range of issues affecting both nations. Al-Sudani emphasised the importance of regional stability amid the ongoing conflict in Gaza, calling for immediate efforts to halt the violence and address the dire humanitarian situation. He stressed that the escalation of the conflict not only impacts Lebanon and Palestine but also has broader implications for regional peace and security.

Al-Sudani reaffirmed Iraq’s commitment to supporting Lebanon during these challenging times and highlighted the need for collaborative efforts to de-escalate tensions. The discussions also covered the enhancement of economic partnerships, including the agreement on Iraqi oil supplies to Lebanon. 

Both leaders explored ways to deepen economic cooperation and strengthen public-private sector partnerships between their countries.

Additionally, the meeting addressed ongoing challenges such as delays in the equivalency of credentials for Iraqi students in Lebanon, which have been exacerbated by recent health and economic crises. Both leaders expressed their commitment to resolving these issues and improving bilateral relations.

In a related development, Iraqi President Abdul Latif Jamal Rashid also met with Mikati and his delegation. Rashid stressed the need for regional cooperation and understanding amid rapidly changing global events. The president reiterated Iraq’s dedication to strengthening its relationship with Lebanon and supporting efforts to stabilise the region.

Rashid highlighted Iraq's progress in security and reconstruction and stressed the importance of halting the aggression in Gaza. He stated that Iraq's stance on Lebanon is rooted in the deep, brotherly ties between the two nations and the need for a unified approach to regional challenges.

Prime Minister Mikati praised Rashid's supportive stance during the recent summit in Bahrain, where Iraq demonstrated its commitment to Lebanon. Mikati renewed his invitation for Rashid to visit Lebanon.

The meeting between the two leaders and their message of stability came amid a new regional escalation as Israel struck Houthi targets in Yemen.

Israeli airstrikes targeted the port of Hodeidah, killing six people and wounding 87. The attacks, which hit oil facilities and a power plant, sparked a large-scale fire in the port area.