Iraqi Prime Minister Ali Falih al‑Zaidi will pay an official visit to the United States, bringing with him a delegation of business leaders, private‑sector representatives and banking officials, in an effort to boost investment and deepen economic ties with Washington.
Al‑Zaidi announced the trip during a meeting with business leaders, members of private‑sector development bodies, representatives of the Iraqi Economic Council and heads of private banks. He said the inclusion of private‑sector figures reflects the government’s focus on expanding joint investment opportunities and building stronger partnerships with international stakeholders.
The visit comes as Iraq seeks to attract foreign investment and diversify its oil‑dependent economy, while also balancing its relationships with global partners.
Energy cooperation, particularly in oil and gas development, as well as infrastructure investment, is expected to feature prominently in discussions with U.S. counterparts. Officials are also likely to explore concrete agreements and partnerships aimed at boosting economic growth and job creation.
Al‑Zaidi described the private sector as a key partner in the government’s development agenda, stressing that Baghdad is committed to supporting business activity and addressing investor concerns. He reiterated the government’s pledge to combat corruption and extortion, positioning reform efforts as central to improving Iraq’s investment climate.
The prime minister also announced plans to establish a development fund to support private‑sector projects, backed by a $10 billion contribution from the Central Bank of Iraq. He said citizens would be able to subscribe to the fund, with profits exempt from taxes, in a bid to encourage broader participation in economic growth.
The planned visit underscores Iraq’s push to present itself as a more competitive destination for international business, as the government faces mounting pressure to deliver jobs and reduce reliance on oil revenues. A date has not yet been announced, but it will be the first official foreign visit since al-Zaidi was elected on 1 May 2026.
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The 81st UN General Assembly continues in New York on Wednesday, with another day of high-level speeches and diplomatic meetings. The wars in the Middle East and Ukraine, global security and international cooperation remain at the centre of discussions.
As the Ukraine war is highlighted by some leaders during the United Nations' 81st General Assembly meeting in New York, Russian forces attacked the Ukrainian capital Kyiv early on Thursday with ballistic missiles, killing two people and injuring six, Mayor Vitali Klitschko said.
The 81st UN General Assembly returns for its third day in New York on Thursday, with world leaders delivering high-level speeches and holding diplomatic meetings. Restoring trust, managing global transformation, peace and security, and international cooperation remain at the centre of discussions.
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Here’s your AnewZ Daily Brief for 24 September 2026, with five key developments from the second day of the 81st United Nations General Assembly in New York.
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