Iraq and Syria Hold Talks to Enhance Economic Cooperation and Increase Trade Exchange

ARK News.. The Iraqi Ministry of Trade announced that it held official talks with the Syrian side to enhance prospects for economic cooperation and increase the volume of trade exchange between the two countries, with a focus on opening new markets for Iraqi products.

The Iraqi Ministry of Trade said in a statement on Friday, September 4, 2026, that Iraqi Minister of Trade Mustafa Nizar Aani met with Syrian Minister of Economy and Industry Mohammad Nidal al-Sha'ar on the sidelines of their participation in the meetings of the 118th regular session of the Economic and Social Council of the League of Arab States.

According to sources, the meeting included a comprehensive review of existing economic and trade relations between Baghdad and Damascus, with the two sides discussing ways to develop cooperation and mechanisms to increase trade exchange in a way that meets both countries' aspirations.

The ministry explained that a key part of the discussions was devoted to expanding Iraqi exports to Syrian markets, particularly in the cement and asphalt (bitumen) sectors.

During the meeting, both sides also stressed the need to work seriously to overcome all obstacles and restrictions hindering the flow of goods, to ensure maximum benefit from the available potential and opportunities.

22