His Excellency Sheikh Nahro Al-Kasnazan, the global spiritual leader of the Kasnazan Qadiri Order, hosted a high-level delegation from the Gold Institute for International Strategy in Baghdad on Wednesday, April 23. The delegation, led by the Institute’s President Eli Gold, held an official meeting with Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia' Al-Sudani. Prime Minister Al- Sudani warmly received the group, extending his greetings and expressing his appreciation for their visit.

During the discussions, the president of the Gold Institute underscored the strategic importance of strengthening the U.S.-Iraq relationship across key domains including security cooperation, economic development, and political engagement. Emphasizing mutual interests, he highlighted the need for deeper collaboration to ensure regional stability and prosperity.

Former U.S. Congressman Trent Franks also addressed the gathering, emphasizing Iraq’s pivotal geopolitical position within the Middle East. He noted Iraq's potential to serve as a stabilizing force in the region, provided it pursues policies that prioritize sovereignty and national security. Franks urged the Iraqi government to distance itself from foreign proxies that threaten internal stability and complicate international relations, particularly with the United States.

Geoffrey Van Orden discussed the role of international coalitions in enhancing Iraq’s security infrastructure. He commended the progress made in improving safety and governance and stressed the importance of continued cooperation with Western allies.

Senior Fellow of the Gold Institute, Dr. Nahro Zagros, contributed valuable insights during the meeting, focusing on the evolving dynamics of regional diplomacy and internal political reforms in Iraq.

Members of the Gold Institute delegation also advocated for the expansion of economic ties between Iraq and the United States. They encouraged Prime Minister Al-Sudani to consider policies that would facilitate U.S. investment in Iraq, particularly through tariff reductions. In response, the Prime Minister expressed his intention to communicate with President Donald Trump the possibility of lowering tariffs to the minimum level of 1%, as permitted under Iraqi law, signaling a willingness to improve the commercial climate for American businesses.

Prime Minister Al-Sudani welcomed the discussion points and reiterated his government’s commitment to fostering U.S. business involvement in Iraq. On the topic of regional diplomacy, he offered his perspective on Iran’s nuclear posture, stating that in his view, Iran is not pursuing the development of nuclear weapons. He cited the fatwa issued by Imam Ruhollah Khomeini, the founding spiritual leader of the Islamic Republic, which prohibits the use of such weapons.

The meeting concluded with closing remarks from Sheikh Nahro Al-Kasnazan, who thanked Prime Minister Al-Sudani and the Iraqi government for their hospitality and constructive dialogue. Sheikh Nahro reaffirmed the Gold Institute’s dedication to enhancing U.S.-Iraq relations, particularly in the areas of economic cooperation and business development. He also emphasized his personal commitment to fostering peace and stability for all peoples of the region. Through his leadership and ongoing engagement with both Iraqi and international partners, Sheikh Nahro continues to champion constructive dialogue and shared growth with the United States as a cornerstone of regional progress.