New Delhi, 16 May (H.S.):

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has congratulated Ali Falih Kadhim al-Zaidi on assuming office as the Prime Minister of Iraq, saying India deeply values its longstanding and friendly ties with Baghdad and remains committed to strengthening bilateral relations across all key areas.

In his message, PM Modi extended best wishes to al-Zaidi and expressed confidence that both countries would work together for shared progress and prosperity. The greeting came at a time when Iraq has entered a new political phase under its newly appointed leader.

Ali Falih Kadhim al-Zaidi is reported to have emerged as a consensus choice after weeks of political deadlock in Iraq. According to reports, he is regarded as a businessman-turned-politician, with a background in law and finance, and is described as one of the younger figures to take on the country’s top political office.

India and Iraq share a relationship shaped by energy, trade and people-to-people contacts, and New Delhi has continued to regard Iraq as an important partner in West Asia. The two countries have also maintained contact on broader regional and economic issues, with India seeking stable and constructive engagement with Baghdad.

Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar