Iraqi Prime Minister Ali Faleh al-Zaidi emphasized that his upcoming trip to Washington is not just a routine protocol visit, noting that Iraq prioritizes American companies in the energy, communications, technology, and development sectors.

Al-Zaidi is scheduled to visit Washington, D.C., in mid-July. The official trip details were first announced by the Iraqi government earlier this month, and later U.S. envoy Tom Barrack publicly reiterated President Trump's invitation welcoming him to the country. 

After al-Zaidi took office in May, Trump supported the new cabinet, called him to offer congratulations, and extended an official White House invitation.

The prime minister told Sky News Arabia that the visit represents "the announcement of a new phase of partnership," adding that the United States is a strategic partner for the country's economic development.

Al-Zaidi Targets 'Economic Bridge' With U.S. 

He stressed that the next phase of the partnership will focus on economic, investment, and development cooperation to transition from a military alliance to a sustainable economic bridge that serves both nations.

Al-Zaidi confirmed that he directed the Ministries of Oil, Electricity, and Communications to prioritize U.S. companies in the energy, communications, technology, and development sectors.

He highlighted that the Ministerial Council for the Economy has made key decisions regarding major oil projects with international firms, including Chevron, Halliburton, and HKN Energy, while granting them opportunities in new fields and exploration blocks. 

Starlink License to Boost Iraq's Digital Infrastructure 

He stated that the communications sector is moving toward strategic cooperation with Starlink to strengthen Iraq’s digital infrastructure.

 Iraq officially approved Starlink's operating license on June 16 to strengthen the country's digital infrastructure and expand high-speed internet access.

$400B Energy Fund Proposal With U.S. to Boost Oil Production 

Al-Zaidi stated that Iraq will discuss an Energy and Development Fund project with the United States to scale oil production up to two million barrels per day, potentially outside OPEC quota constraints. The fund's accounts will be held at reputable American banks to directly finance infrastructure and electricity projects with U.S. companies.

The Prime Minister stated that the fund's financing could reach approximately $400 billion over three decades, with gradual growth tied to project performance and the implementation speed of the involved companies.

"Our goal is to rebuild the infrastructure damaged over the years by investing these resources in development projects," he remarked.

Iraq Eyes Bigger Oil Output 

Al-Zaidi stated that Iraq is working to secure a fair share of oil production within OPEC that aligns with its true capabilities. 

Earlier, the Iraqi Ministry of Oil denied reports of a potential OPEC withdrawal, reaffirming its commitment to the group. It confirmed that Iraq is using official technical channels to gradually end voluntary cuts and restore its production baseline over the coming months.