PM Modi congratulates new Iraqi Prime Minister Ali Falih al-Zaidi, reaffirms strong bilateral ties

New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended his congratulations Saturday to Ali Falih Kadhim al-Zaidi upon his assumption of office as the prime minister of Iraq, affirming that India deeply values its enduring partnership with the Middle Eastern nation.

Al-Zaidi, a prominent businessman, was selected as a consensus leader following weeks of negotiations among the political parties comprising the Coordination Framework. The factions sought a compromise candidate capable of heading Iraq's incoming administration.

On Thursday, Iraq's Parliament voted to ratify al-Zaidi's strategic government platform along with a portion of his proposed Cabinet ministers.

The Indian prime minister utilised social media to convey his administration's commitment to deepening diplomatic and economic cooperation between New Delhi and Baghdad.

"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 ties in all areas," Modi said in a post on X.

The Prime Minister emphasised a desire for continued bilateral engagement to foster mutual development.

"I extend my best wishes to him and look forward to working together for the shared progress and prosperity of our two nations," Modi added.

With inputs from PTI