Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Meets the U.S. President’s Special Envoy for the Syrian Affairs in Doha

The Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, H.E. Mr. Fuad Hussein, met on Sunday, 7 December 2025, the U.S. President’s Special Envoy for Syrian Affairs, H.E. Mr. Thomas Barrack, on the sidelines of the Doha Forum.

During the meeting, H.E. Mr. Fuad Hussein reviewed the stages Iraq has undergone in consolidating its democratic approach after 2003, and the complex challenges that accompanied these transformations. He affirmed that Iraq remains committed to its democratic choice, the building of its institutions, and the rejection of all forms of dictatorship that it had suffered from for decades.

In a related context, the Minister referred to the challenges facing Syria, the efforts exerted within the political track, and the role of the U.S. envoy in these affairs.

H.E. the Minister also expressed the Iraqi government’s surprise at the recent statements made by the U.S. envoy regarding Iraq’s internal situation, noting that it was important to present the vision in a different manner that reflects the reality of the political progress and relative stability achieved in Iraq. He stressed that the choices of the Iraqi people are respected, and that democracy and the federal system are enshrined in the Constitution and have become a firmly established path with no alternative, despite the challenges.

H.E. Mr. Fuad Hussein emphasised the importance of joint cooperation between Iraq and the United States, and strengthening the strategic partnership between the two countries, commending the role played by the United States within the international coalition to combat the terrorist ISIS.

H.E. Mr. Fuad Hussein also stressed the necessity of representing all components of the Syrian people in the political process and launching a comprehensive national dialogue, affirming the readiness of the Iraqi government to provide support and advice and to benefit from the Iraqi experience in dealing with political and security crises.

For his part, H.E. Mr. Thomas Barrack expressed his thanks and appreciation to H.E. Mr. Fuad Hussein for the historical and political vision he presented regarding Iraq and its situation prior to 2003, affirming that the U.S. administration views the Iraqi experience with respect, and that his remarks relate to the American experience in Iraq.

The U.S. envoy also addressed the current situation in Syria, stressing the importance of fair treatment for all Syrian components and supporting efforts aimed at finding solutions, emphasizing that the matter ultimately rests with the Syrian people.