“Economic and trade cooperation between China and Iraq has grown steadily, with China remaining Iraq’s largest trading partner and Iraq ranking as China’s third-largest partner among Arab countries.” During the 11th China-Arab States Business Conference in April, Iraq’s Vice Foreign Minister Hisham Al-Alawi told Hainan International Media Center in an exclusive interview that bilateral trade has surged in recent years, with China’s exports to Iraq reaching over USD 15 billion in 2024. Meanwhile, Iraq has also become China’s third-largest crude oil supplier, after Russia and Saudi Arabia. These robust trade ties are driving the economic development of both nations.

This was Al-Alawi’s first visit to Hainan, and he expressed admiration for the island’s tropical scenery and modern development. He highlighted that Hainan not only boasts beautiful landscapes and well-developed tourism infrastructure but also offers a favorable policy environment as a free trade port, positioning it as a magnet for global investment and collaboration. “Hainan’s geographical advantages and policy incentives will create new opportunities for China to strengthen economic and trade ties with the Middle East and Arab world,” he said, adding that he looks forward to increased collaboration between Iraq and Hainan in tourism and trade.

Addressing Iraq’s long-standing challenge of power shortages, Al-Alaw emphasized Iraq’s interest in strengthening cooperation with China in the field of renewable energy—particularly in the development and application of solar technologies. He noted that China’s experience and innovation in clean energy could provide strong support for Iraq’s energy transition and contribute to the joint pursuit of sustainable, green development.

Al-Alawi also pointed out that the modernization of Chinese cities such as Shenzhen and Guangzhou offers valuable inspiration for Iraq’s own development. Iraq is currently accelerating infrastructure construction and aims to stimulate urban vitality by creating more job opportunities. He encouraged more young Iraqis to study in China to enhance mutual understanding between the two countries’ younger generations and warmly invited Chinese tourists to visit Iraq and experience its unique culture and cuisine.