Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Meets UN Secretary General to Discuss Areas of Cooperation

Baghdad, May 16, 2025– Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Mr. Fuad Hussein, received United Nations Secretary-General Mr. António Guterres in Baghdad, along with the Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General for Iraq, Mr. Mohamed El Hassan; the UN Under-Secretary-General and Commissioner-General of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA), Mr. Philippe Lazzarini; and the UN Under-Secretary-General for Political and Peacebuilding Affairs, Ms. Rosemary DiCarlo, and their accompanying delegation.

The meeting focused on enhancing cooperation between Iraq and the United Nations across various areas and addressing issues of mutual interest.

Minister Hussein reaffirmed Iraq’s appreciation for its strong relations with the United Nations and commended the vital role the organization has played in supporting Iraq over the past decades, particularly in post-conflict recovery, stabilization efforts, and assistance in facing various challenges.

The two sides discussed the implementation of UN Security Council Resolution 2732 (2024), which concerns ending the mandate of the United Nations Assistance Mission for Iraq (UNAMI). Minister Hussein emphasized Iraq’s commitment to ensuring a smooth and organized transition and liquidation process for the mission, in accordance with an agreed timeline that guarantees continued technical support from the UN during the next phase.

Minister Hussein also highlighted Iraq’s pivotal role in the region, stressing its commitment to fostering balanced international relations and promoting dialogue and understanding among nations to enhance regional peace and stability.

The humanitarian situations in Gaza and Syria were also discussed. Minister Hussein underscored the urgent need for the international community to intensify efforts to provide humanitarian aid to civilians and ensure safe and sustained delivery of assistance. He reiterated Iraq’s steadfast stance on supporting humanitarian causes and upholding international humanitarian law.

On his part, UN Secretary-General Guterres commended the efforts of UN agencies in alleviating the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, affirming the UN’s commitment to continuing the delivery of essential aid despite the significant challenges facing relief operations on the ground.

Additionally, Mr. Guterres commended the positive transformations taking place in Iraq and expressed his admiration for the progress witnessed in the capital, Baghdad. He also extended his best wishes for the success of the 34th Arab League Summit, commending Iraq’s role in hosting this important event, which represents a valuable opportunity to strengthen Arab solidarity and address regional challenges through cooperation and shared responsibility.