Iraq and Uzbekistan have moved to strengthen economic ties through a new cooperation framework.
Iraq’s Minister of Trade, Dr Mustafa Nizar Al-Ani, visited Tashkent and held talks with senior Uzbek officials. During the visit, both sides signed a memorandum of understanding to create a joint economic and trade committee.
The agreement aims to give both countries a stronger platform for cooperation. Moreover, it will help officials follow up on trade, investment, and economic agreements.
The Iraq Uzbekistan trade push also reflects Baghdad’s wider effort to expand partnerships beyond its traditional markets. In addition, it gives Uzbek companies a clearer path into Iraq’s growing business environment.
Al-Ani signed the agreement on behalf of Iraq. Meanwhile, Uzbekistan’s Minister of Investment, Industry and Trade, Laziz Kudratov, signed on behalf of Uzbekistan. Senior officials from both countries attended the signing.
The new committee will support regular communication between the two governments. Also, it will help both sides review progress on future projects. As a result, Iraq and Uzbekistan can move faster on shared economic goals.
During the discussions, officials also reviewed several key cooperation plans. These included an agreement to promote and protect investments. Furthermore, both sides discussed direct air routes between Iraq and Uzbekistan.
Direct flights could support tourism, trade, and business travel. In addition, they could make meetings between investors easier. Therefore, both governments see transport links as an important part of stronger relations.
The talks also covered overland transport routes. These routes could help move passengers and goods between both countries. Moreover, stronger land links could reduce costs for traders and companies.
Officials also discussed the idea of opening trade centers in both countries. These centers could introduce Iraqi products to Uzbekistan. At the same time, they could help Uzbek products reach Iraqi buyers.
The Iraq Uzbekistan trade push also includes plans for a “Made in Uzbekistan” exhibition in Baghdad. The event could highlight Uzbek products and services for Iraqi businesses. In addition, it could create new links between companies from both sides.
Banking cooperation also formed part of the talks. Both countries discussed linking banks to support financial transfers. This step could help companies complete payments more easily. Therefore, it could encourage more business deals and investment activity.
Both sides also agreed on early steps to create an Iraqi-Uzbek Business Council. This council would give business leaders a permanent space for talks. Moreover, it would help companies explore investment opportunities in both markets.
The Uzbek Chamber of Commerce and Industry welcomed closer cooperation with Iraq. Its leadership also highlighted interest among Uzbek companies in the Iraqi market.
Several promising sectors came under discussion during the meetings. These included glass, textiles, and construction materials. Iraq needs more industrial growth, while Uzbekistan wants wider access to regional markets.
As a result, both countries could benefit from practical business partnerships. Uzbek companies could bring industrial experience and products. Meanwhile, Iraq could offer market demand and investment opportunities.
Al-Ani also invited Uzbekistan to join the Baghdad International Fair and other specialist exhibitions in Iraq. These events could help Uzbek businesses meet Iraqi partners directly. Furthermore, they could support new trade agreements and investment deals.
The Iraq Uzbekistan trade push shows a growing effort to build stronger economic bridges. It also shows Iraq’s interest in attracting new partners from Central Asia. Therefore, the new committee and business council could open the door to wider cooperation.
