His Majesty King Abdullah agreed with Iraqi President Barham Salih at Basman Palace on Thursday to expand cooperation between the two countries in various fields, especially in areas of economy, trade, investment, energy and transport.

During bilateral talks followed by an expanded meeting attended by senior officials from both sides, King Abdullah and President Salih stressed the importance of moving forward with implementing a number of joint economic projects. The projects include the oil pipeline from Basra to Aqaba, the rehabilitation of the Amman-Baghdad highway, and establishing a joint industrial zone on the Jordanian-Iraqi border.

President Salih reiterated the importance of launching joint projects, noting that an oil pipeline from Basra to Aqaba is strategic to Iraq.

He also called on Jordanian companies to capitalise on investment opportunities in Iraq.

His Majesty and the Iraqi president stressed the need to facilitate trade between the two countries and the entry of Jordanian products into the Iraqi market.

The two leaders also encouraged senior officials and the private sector to exchange visits in order to operationalise the signed agreements, and to increase joint trade and investment projects.

The King and President Salih affirmed their appreciation of the brotherly, historical ties that both countries share, and their keenness to continue coordination and consultation on various areas of common interest.

His Majesty congratulated President Salih on his election the Iraqi parliament, stressing that Jordan stands by Iraq in its efforts to maintain its unity and stability, as well as achieve the aspirations of the Iraqi people.

Talks also covered efforts in the fight against terrorism within a holistic strategy, as the King stressed the importance of enhancing regional and global coordination to counter terrorism and promote interfaith harmony.

Additionally, the talks touched on the Syrian crisis and the need to reach a political solution accepted by all Syrians that maintains the territorial integrity of the country.

President Salih affirmed the keenness of his country to enhance cooperation with Jordan, commending His Majesty’s efforts in supporting Iraq in terms of security, stability, prosperity, and countering terrorism.

The Iraqi president also congratulated the King on receiving the 2018 Templeton Prize, in appreciation of his efforts to spread interfaith harmony, safeguard Islamic and Christian holy sites in Jerusalem, and protect freedom of worship.

His Majesty hosted a luncheon in honour of President Salih and the accompanying delegation.