On Saturday, Iranian Ambassador to Baghdad, Mohammad-Kazem Ale-Sadegh, and Mehdi Rayati, the CEO of the Mehran Free Zone, held a joint meeting with Munther Abdul-Amir Assad, the Director General of Iraq’s General Authority for Free Zones, to review the latest measures, as well as the technical, legal, and administrative requirements for implementing the strategic project, including the projected timeline.

The two sides emphasized the commitment of Iranian and Iraqi officials to enhance economic ties. They highlighted the need for improved coordination among executive bodies, the finalization of the plan, and the establishment of conditions to attract private-sector investment.

During the meeting, Rayati said that launching the joint commercial and industrial crossing would create a unique opportunity to connect production chains between Iran and Iraq, establish export-oriented joint industries, and lower trade and goods transit costs.

For his part, Abdul-Amir Assad welcomed expanded cooperation with Iran, adding that the Iraqi side is ready to finalize coordination with the relevant authorities in Baghdad and Wasit Governorate to establish essential infrastructure at the Zurbatiyah border point.