ERBIL, Kurdistan Region - United States President Donald Trump on Sunday announced the appointment of Michigan businessman Mark Savaya, of Iraqi descent, as his Special Envoy to the country, describing him as someone with a “deep understanding of the Iraq-U.S. relationship.”
“I’m pleased to announce [that] Mark Savaya will serve as Special Envoy to the Republic of Iraq. Mark’s deep understanding of the Iraq-U.S. relationship, and his connections in the region, will help advance the interests of the American people,” Trump wrote in a post on his Truth Social platform.
Savaya, reportedly a Chaldean entrepreneur of Iraqi descent, is the founder of Leaf and Bud, a company specializing in the cultivation of marijuana for medical and recreational use. According to his LinkedIn profile, he has no previous experience in government at the local, state, or federal level.
Meanwhile, Iraq’s own Chaldean population has seen a significant decrease and struggle for genuine political representation.
Savaya is also a social media influencer who has appeared in several photos with Trump and is a supporter of his Make America Great Again (MAGA) movement.
“Mark was a key player in my campaign in Michigan, where he, and others, helped secure a record vote with Muslim Americans. Congratulations, Mark!” Trump added.
In response, Savaya expressed gratitude for the appointment, writing on X, “I am deeply humbled, honored, and grateful to President Donald J. Trump for appointing me as Special Envoy to the Republic of Iraq.”
“I am committed to strengthening the U.S.–Iraq partnership under President Trump’s leadership and guidance,” he said.
Meanwhile, Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia’ al-Sudani met with US Chargé d’Affaires to Iraq Joshua Harris earlier on Saturday, emphasizing “the importance of constructive communication and dialogue to sustain progress in the security and development partnership.”
Sudani’s office said the meeting reaffirmed both sides’ commitment to strengthening the strategic partnership “based on mutual respect, shared interests, and constructive dialogue.”
Harris “expressed appreciation for Iraq’s active diplomatic role and its growing contribution as a stabilizing factor in the region,” the statement added.