BAGHDAD, Feb. 25 (Xinhua) -- Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia' al-Sudani emphasized Sunday the importance of intertwining the interests of regional countries by focusing on the economy rather than politics to prevent and contain conflicts in the Middle East.
Al-Sudani made the remarks during a symposium of the sixth Baghdad International Dialogue Conference that discussed Iraq's relations with its neighboring countries and the rest of the world, according to a statement by al-Sudani's media office.
Al-Sudani pointed out that "major strategic projects, such as the Development Road Project, will attract partnerships and facilitate the economic integration of the countries of the region," the statement said.
The Iraqi government proposed the Development Road Project, a massive infrastructure project, in May 2023 with the goal of linking southern Iraq to the country's border with Türkiye, from where it will connect to European rail and road networks.
Al-Sudani also said that Iraq is pursuing a balanced foreign policy by refraining from aligning with alliances or axes, according to the statement.
He said Iraq is open to strengthening relations with everyone, stressing that Iraq rejects its territory being used as an arena for settling scores between rival countries. ■
