FSI Cooperates with Bahr al-Uloom Forum in a Seminar on Developing Iraqi Cultural Diplomacy

As part of the Iraqi Diplomacy Governance Project implemented by the Bahr Al-Uloom Forum in cooperation with the Foreign Service Institute and the Department of Political Planning at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, a seminar titled “Governance of Iraqi Diplomacy: Cultural Diplomacy as a Societal Domain for International Relations” was held on Wednesday, 7 October 2026. The seminar focused on examining the current state of Iraqi cultural diplomacy, its future needs, and its role in building trust and enhancing Iraq’s presence in its international relations.

The seminar featured Acting Minister of Culture, Tourism and Antiquities, Mrs Sarwa Abdulwahid; Dean of the Foreign Service Institute, Ambassador Dr Mohammed Abdullah Shummary; Director of the Department of Political Planning, Ambassador Alaa Al-Din Riyadh Al-Nasiri; and Director General of the Conference Palace Department, Dr Muntasir Sabah Al-Hasnawi. The seminar was moderated by Mr Ali Al-Ghuraifi.

The seminar discussed the concept of cultural diplomacy as a field that extends beyond traditional official activities into a broader space involving cultural, academic and societal institutions. It also highlighted the need for a national vision that harnesses Iraq’s civilizational heritage, cultural diversity, and intellectual and artistic output, and connects these assets with foreign-policy priorities and national interests.

The discussions underscored the importance of institutional coordination between the Ministries of Foreign Affairs and Culture, Tourism and Antiquities, as well as other relevant entities. They also addressed the need to activate the role of diplomatic missions, cultural and academic institutions, research centres, and Iraqi communities abroad, and to make use of the arts, literature, heritage, education, and cultural exchange to broaden avenues of communication and present a more comprehensive image of Iraq, its society, and its culture.

The seminar also examined the transition from scattered initiatives and events to sustainable, implementable and measurable programmes; the development of the capacities of professionals working in this field; and the expansion of partnerships with international institutions. These efforts would strengthen the role of cultural diplomacy within Iraqi diplomatic practice and open broader avenues for understanding and cooperation at the regional and international levels.

Contributions from the attendees enriched the discussion on ways to transform Iraq’s civilizational and cultural heritage and societal diversity into an active presence in its international relations. They also highlighted the need for an institutional framework that ensures the sustainability of this work and the integration of its various roles, leading to approaches and recommendations that contribute to developing Iraqi cultural diplomacy and more closely linking it with the country’s diplomatic practice.