ERBIL, Kurdistan Region of Iraq - Iraqi prime minister nominee Nouri al-Maliki on Friday received US envoy for Syria Tom Barrack, during which the State of Law Coalition leader called for respecting Iraq’s sovereignty and the choices of its people, amid Washington’s vocal opposition of his candidacy.

Maliki “emphasized the importance of supporting the democratic process and enhancing political stability, stressing the need to respect Iraq's sovereignty and the choices of its people,” read a statement from Maliki’s office on the meeting.

US President Donald Trump’s rejection of Maliki’s nomination for Iraq’s premiership has sparked concerns at home, with growing calls on the State of Law Coalition to withdraw his bid to avoid damage to Baghdad-Washington relations.

Friday’s meeting marked the first public encounter between Maliki and Barrack. The American diplomat already met with several of Iraq and the Kurdistan Region’s top political leaders earlier this week.

“It was also confirmed that communication and coordination between the two sides will continue on issues of mutual interest,” the statement added.

The statement from Maliki’s office did not offer much from Barrack’s perspective other than diplomatic niceties and stock phrases. There has yet to be a statement from the American side.

Iraq’s foreign ministry on Thursday confirmed that Washington had warned Baghdad of the possibility of sanctions if Maliki were to take the premiership.

Despite Trump’s threats, Maliki told AFP in an interview which aired on Monday that he has “absolutely no intention to withdraw” his candidacy for the position, claiming no foreign actor can decide who becomes the country’s next premier.

Maliki previously served two terms as prime minister from 2006 to 2014, stepping down during his second term after major security setbacks linked to the rise of the Islamic State (ISIS), amid long-standing allegations of corruption.

His tenure also saw him draw the ire of Washington over his perceived closeness to Iran and for allowing Tehran to increase its influence in the country.