The high profile meeting, notably attended by Baghdad’s foreign and interior ministers, saw officials prioritize “enhancing economic cooperation and supporting efforts to achieve regional security and stability.” These topics are expected to top the agenda at the 34th Arab League summit.
The Arab League Summit is a significant event that brings together the heads of state and high-ranking officials from the 22 member countries. It provides a platform for addressing critical issues that affect the Arab world, including economic, political, and security challenges.
Iraq’s Foreign Minister, Fuad Hussein, described Baghdad hosting the summit as an “important step” that reflects Iraq’s “growing status at both Arab and regional levels,” highlighting its “role in enhancing stability [in the region] and supporting joint Arab cooperation.”
Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia’ al-Sudani last year announced that Baghdad would host the 34th Arab League summit in Baghdad in 2025, describing it as a sign of Iraq’s continued integration into the Arab world.
Baghdad has in recent years emerged as a key mediator between regional rivals, hosting several rounds of talks between Iran and Saudi Arabia. The talks, facilitated by Iraq and Oman, led to a landmark China-brokered deal in March 2023. The agreement normalized diplomatic relations between Riyadh and Tehran after they had been severed for seven years.
Iraq has also offered to mediate in various regional and international conflicts, including the Yemen conflict - described by the United Nations as one of the world’s worst humanitarian crises - as well as the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war.
