Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday congratulated Ali Falih Kadhim al-Zaidi after he officially took charge as Iraq’s new Prime Minister. At the same time, Modi said India deeply values its long-standing friendship with Iraq and remains committed to strengthening bilateral ties across multiple sectors.
Modi Highlights Strong India-Iraq Relations
In his message, Modi welcomed Iraq’s new leadership and stressed the importance of stronger cooperation between the two countries. He said, “Heartiest congratulations to Ali Falih Kadhim al-Zaidi on assuming office as Prime Minister of Iraq. India highly values its longstanding and friendly ties with Iraq and remains firmly committed to further strengthening our bilateral ties in all areas.”
Moreover, India and Iraq continue to maintain close cooperation in trade, energy and regional affairs. Iraq also remains one of India’s key energy partners and plays a major role in meeting the country’s oil needs.
Heartiest congratulations to Ali Falih Kadhim al-Zaidi on assuming office as Prime Minister of Iraq.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) May 16, 2026
India highly values its longstanding and friendly ties with Iraq and remains firmly committed to further strengthening our bilateral ties in all areas.
I extend my best wishes…
Al-Zaidi Emerges as Consensus Candidate
Meanwhile, Ali al-Zaidi, who comes from the business community, secured the top post after weeks of political negotiations within Iraq’s Coordination Framework alliance.
Several political groups held multiple rounds of discussions before finally agreeing on al-Zaidi as a compromise candidate capable of leading the next government. As a result, his appointment ended a long period of political uncertainty in Iraq.
Iraqi Parliament Approves New Government
On Thursday, the Iraqi Parliament formally approved the government programme and cleared a major portion of the new cabinet lineup.
Consequently, the approval gave al-Zaidi’s administration the authority to begin governing and implementing its policy agenda. The new government is now expected to focus on political stability, economic reforms and rebuilding public confidence.
India Looks to Expand Cooperation
Furthermore, India expressed hope for closer engagement with Iraq’s new administration in the coming years. Modi also said both countries should work together for mutual growth and prosperity.
“I extend my best wishes to him and look forward to working together for the shared progress and prosperity of our two nations,” the Prime Minister added.
Overall, India’s early diplomatic outreach highlighted the importance New Delhi places on its partnership with Iraq, especially in areas linked to trade, energy security and regional stability.
At the same time, the message reinforced the long-standing friendship between the people of both nations as Iraq enters a new political phase under al-Zaidi’s leadership.