Foreign Minister Gives Lecture at Panel of Stockholm Forum on Peace and Development

Foreign Minister Mohamad A. Alhakim gave a lecture at panel of the Stockholm Forum on Peace and Development sponsored by the Swedish Foreign Ministry and the Stockholm International Institute for Peace Research.

Minister Alhakim pointed out that the biggest challenges in Iraq is to rebuild the economy on the basis of modern basis stressing the importance of the democratic system, and the need to support its institutions in Iraq.

Minister Alhakim stressed that the reference of Sistani had a significant impact in finding a balance of society, and lay the foundations for the agreement of Iraqis on the Constitution as a reference for any successful democratic and political process.

Minister Alhakim pointed out that fighting corruption in Iraq is a priority of the government of Prime Minister Adel Abdul Mahdi, as well as reducing the poverty rates in Iraq, creating job opportunities, upgrading the services provided to citizens, in addition to priorities for health, education and job creation.

On the role of women in the process of democratization in Iraq, the Minister stated : Women have set an example by participating in the government, the Council of Representatives and other leadership positions.

Minister Alhakim called for the importance of supporting Iraq in the reconstruction; to achieve stability, and the sustainability of peace and security in the country, stating that justice is the main factor in avoiding conflicts in any part of the world.