Amman, July 2 (Petra) - A Jordanian ministerial delegation met with Iraqi Prime Minister Ali Zaidi on Thursday to accelerate joint economic projects and strengthen bilateral trade.

Talks addressed a slew of issues of common interest, mainly the cross-border Basra-Aqaba oil pipeline and ongoing electrical connectivity efforts.

Discussions also went over ways to remove trade barriers and foster "stronger" ties between Jordanian and Iraqi business leaders to stimulate private-sector growth.

During the meeting, Zaidi pointed to Jordan's role as a "vital strategic" partner for Iraq, expressing Baghdad's intent to scale up mutual investments despite regional challenges, aimed to achieve stability and development..

Meanwhile, Yarub Qudah, Minister of Industry and Trade and Supply, praised Iraq's recent steps to achieve economic reform, push anti-corruption drive, and improve its investment climate, which would strengthen the mutual partnership.

Also during the discussions, Qudah conveyed an official invitation from Prime Minister Dr. Jaafar Hassan to the Iraqi counterpart to visit the Kingdom.

//Petra// HA