Interview
Iraq's Sudani: US troop withdrawal does not mean end of security relationship
At an event hosted by Al-Monitor and the US Chamber of Commerce, the prime minister discussed Iraq’s plan to achieve energy independence by 2030 and his desire to drawdown the US military presence in the country.
NEW YORK — Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani said in an exclusive interview with Al-Monitor on Wednesday night that Iraq is eager to do business with US companies as it seeks energy independence, adding that the country is ready to handle security without the US-led coalition.
“We are ready to enter into direct negotiations to benefit from all the opportunities available to develop oil, gas and petrochemicals,” said Sudani.
The Iraqi premier spoke at a joint event hosted by Al-Monitor and the US Chamber of Commerce, which was held on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly. He addressed the annual forum on Thursday.
Energy independence
