Undersecretary for Bilateral Relations Receives European Union Delegation

Undersecretary of the Foreign Ministry for Bilateral Relations Ambassador Mohammed Hussein Bahr Aluloom, received on Monday, February 10, 2025, in Baghdad, Ms. Rosamaria Gili the Deputy Managing Director for Middle East and North Africa at the European External Action Service (EEAS), and her accompanying delegation.

The Undersecretary affirmed the strength of relations between Iraq and the European Union and commended the progress in implementing the Partnership and Cooperation Agreement, and the ongoing preparations for holding a meeting of the Cooperation Committee and Council, between the two sides. As well Undersecretary Bahr Aluloom underlined the importance of lifting the European ban on Iraqi Airways, calling for supporting Iraq’s efforts in tackling the travel warnings, and urging European companies to enhance their investments in light of the security stability and economic growth opportunities in Iraq. The Undersecretary pointed to the growing role of Iraq as a regional diplomatic center, through its mediation initiatives and major projects, such as the Development Road Project, stressing Iraq’s keenness to enhance cooperation with the Gulf countries according to the principle of balance and common interests and referred to the expansion of Iraqi diplomatic representation, and Iraq’s advanced preparations to host the 2025 Arab Summit and its presidency of the G77 and China.

With regard to the United Nations, the Undersecretary explained that ending UNAMI’s mandate came as a confirmation of Iraq’s recovery and transformation into an effective regional party, and its endeavor to establish a normal relationship with United Nations agencies, the Undersecretary also renewed Iraq’s position in support of Syria’s stability, warning of the growing threat of Da’esh terrorist organization. As for the Palestinian issue, the Undersecretary underlined Iraq’s rejection of any attempts to displace Palestinians, considering this a violation of international law.

On her part, Ms. Gili affirmed the European Union’s appreciation for Iraq’s role in enhancing regional stability, praising the progress it is making, and affirming the Union’s commitment to continue supporting Iraq and enhancing bilateral cooperation.