(MENAFN) US Special Envoy to Iraq Mark Savaya on Thursday praised the successful completion of the country’s parliamentary elections, describing them as a “crucial step toward strengthening democracy and stability in the country.”

“I would like to extend my sincere congratulations to the brave people of Iraq on the successful completion of the recent parliamentary elections, a crucial step toward strengthening democracy and stability in the country,” Savaya said in a statement shared on US social media platform X.

He also lauded Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani’s government for overseeing a smooth and timely electoral process, calling the polls “a clear sign that Iraq is moving toward greater prosperity and sovereignty.”

Reaffirming Washington’s support for Iraq’s sovereignty and reform initiatives, Savaya said the US is prepared to collaborate with the incoming government to strengthen “our strategic partnership” in areas such as security, energy, and development.

Iraq conducted parliamentary elections on Nov. 11, with a voter turnout of 56.11%. The Reconstruction and Development Coalition, led by Prime Minister Sudani, secured first place in nine provinces, including the capital, Baghdad. The premier stated that negotiations to form a new government will begin soon.

A total of 7,743 candidates, including 2,247 women, contested the elections. Shia parties and blocs continue to hold a majority in the current legislature, while Iraq’s power-sharing system traditionally allocates the presidency to the Kurds, the premiership to the Shias, and the parliamentary speakership to the Sunnis.

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