Ministry Departments
Office of the Minister
Director of the Office / Ambassador / Salwan Rashid Sinjari
Protocol Department
Acting Head of Department
Head: Ambassador Mohamed Hisham Bouini
Deputy Head of the Department: Ammar Ahmed Jarallah
Deputy Head of the Department: Salwan Abbas Al-Rawdhan
Departmental Sections and Functions:
Protocol Department: Comprises several portfolios (President of the Republic, Prime Minister, Minister, Cabinet Ministers, Parliament, Appointments, Aircraft, Delegations and Visits, National Holidays, Administrative Orders/Directives/Circulars, Presentation of Ambassadors’ Credentials, Media and National Anthem, Governments, and the Kurdistan Region). It is responsible for the following tasks:
President of the Republic Portfolio: Facilitating the delivery of congratulatory messages, expressions of gratitude, condolences, and official invitations from the President of the Republic to heads of state and monarchs, and vice versa.
Prime Minister Portfolio: Facilitating the delivery of congratulatory messages, expressions of gratitude, condolences, and official invitations from the Prime Minister to heads of state and monarchs, and vice versa.
Minister Portfolio: Preparing and facilitating the delivery of congratulatory messages, expressions of gratitude, condolences, and official invitations from the Minister of Foreign Affairs to their counterparts in other countries, and vice versa.
Cabinet Ministers Portfolio: Facilitating the delivery of congratulatory messages, expressions of gratitude, condolences, and official invitations from ministers of the Iraqi government to their counterparts worldwide, and vice versa.
Appointments Portfolio: Organizing official meetings. This includes arranging meetings for members of diplomatic missions (both resident and non-resident) accredited to the Republic of Iraq, as well as international organizations operating in Iraq, with the President of the Republic, the Prime Minister, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, other government officials, heads of ministry departments, and ambassadors.
Aircraft Portfolio: Securing official clearances for the landing and takeoff of private and military aircraft at Iraqi airports, as well as for aircraft transiting through Iraqi airspace. General Affairs, Reservations, and Reception: This includes the dispatch of invitations, as well as congratulatory, condolence, and thank-you messages—whether originating from Iraqi entities or Arab and foreign diplomatic missions—to their intended recipients. It also involves preparing communications to our diplomatic missions abroad to arrange hotel bookings, reception, and departure services for Ministry of Foreign Affairs personnel being posted overseas, as well as for Iraqi government delegations from various ministries participating in international conferences.
Organization of Official Visits by Foreign Delegations to Iraq: This entails developing visit itineraries in coordination with relevant Iraqi authorities; managing reception, departure, and escort services; scheduling meetings between delegations and officials; and overseeing all protocol-related requirements for such visits.
Organization of Reception and Departure Ceremonies for Dignitaries and Delegations: This includes the reception of heads of state, ministers, ambassadors, senior officials, and official delegations; arranging seating and standing positions in accordance with established precedence; and supervising official ceremonies at the airport.
Ceremonies for the Presentation of Ambassadors’ Credentials: This involves making the necessary arrangements for the presentation of credentials by ambassadors, and coordinating with relevant stakeholders—including the Presidency of the Republic, our diplomatic missions abroad, and Arab and foreign missions based in Iraq—regarding the procedures for newly appointed ambassadors.
Organization of Official Celebrations and Events: This includes preparing for official events, ceremonies, and national holidays, while ensuring that the order of precedence for attendees is strictly observed.
Flag Protocol: This involves determining the appropriate placement of the Iraqi flag, the flags of Arab and foreign nations, and the flags of international organizations, while ensuring that all flags are in good condition and meet the required specifications. Managing the protocol aspects of international conferences, meetings, and events: overseeing opening and closing ceremonies and official receptions, coordinating formal invitations, and determining matters of precedence.
Official banquets and receptions: coordinating invitations and arranging seating for guests in accordance with the order of precedence.
Diplomatic Corps Section:
undertake and accomplish the following tasks:
Obtaining formal approvals for:
Opening Foreign Political and Consulate Missions in Iraq.
Accreditation of Iraqi Ambassadors, General Consuls and military, Commercial, Cultural Attaches nominated to work in Iraqi diplomatic and consulate Missions abroad.
Accreditation of Foreign Ambassadors, General and Honorary Consuls, and military, commercial, cultural Attaches nominated to work in Diplomatic and Consulate Missions accredited in Iraq.
Entering light weapons and communication equipment related to work requirements of the Diplomatic and Consulate missions and International organizations accredited in Iraq.
. Preparing letters of Credentials for Iraqi Ambassadors and Permanent Representative.
3. Granting entry-visas to members of the Diplomatic and consulate missions and International Organization accredited in Iraq.
4. Issuing resident cards and entering to Baghdad international Airport cards for Diplomatic and consulate mission and international organizations accredited in Iraq.
5. Facilitating importing and exporting of shipments, goods, and cars for the use of Diplomatic and consulate missions and international organizations accredited in Iraq,and granting it costumes and taxes exemptions.
6. Coordinating with Ministry of Interior on Insuring protection for Diplomatic and Consulate Missions and International Organizations accredited in Iraq during their transportation inside and outside Baghdad.
7. Solving technical and logistic obstacles related to the work and functions of Diplomatic and Consulate Missions and International Organizations accredited in Iraq.
8. Facilitating granting residence to employee of Diplomatic and Consulate Missions and International Organizations accredited in Iraq, carrying ordinary passports.
9. Providing necessary Facilities for the Diplomatic and consulate Missions and international Organizations accredited in Iraq to buy or rent real states to be used as mission’s Headquarters.
Visa Section:
The Visas Section within the Protocol Department coordinates with Arab and foreign embassies accredited to Iraq (both resident and non-resident) and with Iraq’s diplomatic missions abroad to secure entry visas for ministry staff, personnel from other official government institutions, and prominent public figures who hold diplomatic, service, or special passports. Such requests are processed via official correspondence based on authorized travel/assignment orders.
Furthermore, the section facilitates the issuance of entry visas for visit purposes. This applies to holders of diplomatic, service, or special passports—specifically current members of the Council of Representatives and their families, current members of the Supreme Judicial Council, and ministry staff along with their immediate family members (spouses, unmarried children, and parents). Requests for other categories of individuals are processed only after obtaining approval from the Minister, in accordance with the directive issued by the Minister’s Office (reference number 30, dated January 16, 2023).
I2N Government Communication System Division:
This is a system established by the National Intelligence Service to facilitate secure government communication between state institutions via dedicated access points. The Protocol Department maintains one such access point, through which this division sends and receives official correspondence. The division also carries out the following tasks:
Obtaining approvals for entry visas and residency permits for holders of ordinary passports who work for diplomatic missions or international organizations. This process begins when a mission operating in Iraq submits an official note to the Ministry requesting an entry visa or residency permit for a duration of six months to one year, accompanied by Form No. (3) and a copy of the passport. The Department then issues an official letter to the Ministry of Interior’s Directorate of Residency Affairs to complete the necessary procedures. Once approval is granted, the requesting mission is notified, and a copy of the approval is sent to the relevant Iraqi diplomatic mission abroad to facilitate the issuance of the requested visa.
Coordinating with the Consular Department’s Security Clearance Office to obtain entry visas for holders of ordinary passports for periods ranging from one month to three months.
Forwarding official correspondence—including the nomination of Consuls General, requests for customs exemptions, and other related matters—to the National Intelligence Service.
Diplomatic Corps Division:
Issuing diplomatic residency identification cards for accredited diplomats and their family members.
Granting customs exemptions to diplomatic missions in coordination with the relevant authorities.
Registering vehicles belonging to diplomatic missions with the competent authorities. Granting approval for entry visas for staff and personnel assigned to accredited foreign missions.
Processing movement authorization requests and arranging security protection for missions.
Notifying relevant authorities of the approval granted for entry visas for military attachés/advisors.
Compiling the diplomatic list.
Following up on issues faced by missions with the competent authorities.
Processing requests for airport access permits.
Monitoring the application of the principle of reciprocity.
Coordinating with the Directorate for the Protection of Embassies to ensure security for mission premises and the residences of diplomatic staff.
Diplomatic Accreditation Department:
Accreditation of missions and foreign representation: Processing and obtaining official approvals—including the approval of the Minister and presidential decrees—for the nomination of foreign ambassadors and consuls general assigned to serve in the Republic of Iraq.
Seeking agreement (agrément): Engaging in bilateral coordination with Iraqi embassies abroad and foreign diplomatic missions accredited in Baghdad to seek agreement and exchange formal approvals regarding the nomination of Iraqi ambassadors and consuls general.
Issuance of presidential decrees (for Iraqi ambassadors): Coordinating and formally corresponding with the Presidency of the Republic to issue decrees appointing ambassadors to Iraqi missions abroad, following the receipt of the Minister’s approval and the host state’s acceptance of the nominated ambassador. Preparation of Credentials and Letters of Recall: Preparing credentials for Iraqi ambassadors nominated for diplomatic representation abroad, as well as letters of recall for outgoing ambassadors, for review and signature by the Minister of Foreign Affairs and the President of the Republic; and overseeing all administrative steps required to finalize these documents.
Consulates General and Honorary Consulates:
Preparing consular commissions for Iraqi Consuls General accredited to other countries.
Managing administrative procedures and decrees concerning consuls, following the approval of the Minister.
Preparing and issuing the necessary consular authorizations for foreign Consuls General accredited to the Republic of Iraq.
Obtaining official approvals from the General Secretariat of the Council of Ministers for the opening of foreign Consulates General and Honorary Consulates in Iraq, within their respective jurisdictions.
Attaché Affairs: Facilitating and obtaining the necessary official approvals from relevant government bodies for the accreditation of military attachés and their deputies, as well as various technical attachés (commercial, health, cultural, etc.).
Real Estate and Property Department: This department works to safeguard public funds and the public interest, guided by a flexible strategy and vision that is periodically reviewed and adjusted to meet operational requirements. Its approach aligns with the broader directives of the government and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and is based on relevant laws, international agreements, and established diplomatic practices—including the application of the “principle of reciprocity.”
Department Email: [email protected]
Administrative Department
Head of Department: Ambassador Dr. Wadee Batti
Deputy Head of Department: Counselor Naseer Abdul-Razzaq Ibrahim
Deputy Head of Department: Counselor Ali Mahmoud Hoshmand Hassan
Deputy Head of Department: Counselor Mohammed Faleh Hamoud
Department Functions:
Managing the Ministry’s administrative affairs and personnel matters, both at the headquarters and at Iraq’s diplomatic missions abroad.
Issuing ministerial orders concerning Ministry staff, including those related to committees, leave, duty commencement and termination, transfers, official assignments (missions), and investigative committees.
Overseeing promotions, grade advancements, and salary increments for all Ministry personnel.
Issuing official circulars to various state departments in accordance with established regulations.
Issuing appointment orders and changes to job titles.
Providing logistical support to the Ministry’s facilities, including the management of the headquarters and the supervision of the maintenance of its building and assets.
Auditing personnel files, organizing and filing correspondence, handling the receipt and distribution of general mail, preparing diplomatic correspondence and ensuring its secure dispatch to Iraqi missions abroad, safeguarding maps and other documents relevant to the Ministry’s work—including treaties concluded between Iraq and other nations.
Updating personnel records.
Departmental Sections:
Headquarters Personnel Section
Diplomatic Missions Personnel Section
Special Personnel Section
Secondary Personnel Section
Section for Martyrs’ Affairs and Retirees
Staffing (Establishment) Section: Responsible for issuing appointment orders and changes to job titles.
Department Email Address: [email protected]
Finance Department
Head of Department:
Acting Head of Department:
Minister plenipotentiary Adnan Azara Al-Maajoon
Deputy Heads of Department
Mr. Haider Fadel Hassoun
Mr. Hussein Makki Hassoun
Administrating the finance issues of the Ministry of foreign affairs.
Sections:
Accounting which includes the following sections:
– Salaries.
– Cashing.
– Accounting in center.
– Accounting in Missions.
– Assets.
– wire transfer.
– Stores.
– Fund secretaries.
– funds.
– Exchange Division.
Internal and checking control which includes:
– Internal control.
– Audit missions.
Engineering and Technical Department
Acting Head of Department: Counselor Suhaib Fuad Mohsen
Assistant Head of Department: Counselor Waseem Raja Yousef
Assistant Head of Department: Senior Chief Engineer Haider Alaa Al-Din Mahdi
Department Functions:
1- Managing technical services for all Ministry buildings and overseeing their maintenance and upkeep.
2- Supervising the maintenance and upkeep of the buildings of our diplomatic missions abroad.
3- Monitoring the properties and real estate assets of the Republic of Iraq abroad, in coordination with the Ministry of Finance and other relevant ministries.
4- Coordinating with the Ministry of Planning to include new projects for the Ministry, preparing economic feasibility studies for these projects, and overseeing their design and implementation.
5- Maintaining and updating title deeds and the database for state-owned properties and real estate assets abroad.
Department Email Address: engdep@media2
Department of International Organizations and Conferences
Head of Department: Ambassador Dr. Fadhil Abdul-Hussein Al-Rahim
Deputy Head of Department: Counselor Imad Mohammed Joun
Deputy Head of Department: Counselor Anwar Hussein Hamid
Deputy Head of Department: Sarmad Muwaffaq Mohammed
Brief Overview of the Functions of the Department of International Organizations and Conferences:
The Department comprises six divisions, as follows:
1- United Nations Division
A- Security Council File
The United Nations Division continuously monitors the Security Council file, covering various issues and matters on its agenda—particularly those of direct importance to the Republic of Iraq and the region. The Division also tracks developments and issues concerning the Middle East, assessing their implications for Iraqi interests—especially regarding Iraq’s sovereignty, territorial integrity, and violations of its airspace or territorial waters. Furthermore, it works to convey Iraq’s position to the Security Council through identical letters and official correspondence, in coordination with the relevant Iraqi authorities.
B- The agenda item concerning the situation between Iraq and Kuwait at the Security Council. The file concerning the situation between Iraq and Kuwait is of strategic importance to Iraqi foreign policy, given its connection to the historical legacy of relations between the two countries following 1990 and the subsequent United Nations Security Council resolutions. Iraq has successfully resolved the issues of reparations and the demarcation of the land border; however, the files regarding missing persons and the archives remain under follow-up, in accordance with UN Security Council Resolution 2792 (2025).
C. The United Nations General Assembly File
The United Nations Department monitors the proceedings of the UN General Assembly—including draft resolutions and resolutions relevant to the regional situation—analyzes their content and the positions taken by various states, and assesses any potential implications or repercussions for the interests of the Republic of Iraq.
D. United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA)
UNRWA holds particular significance within the framework of Iraq’s foreign policy, which is committed to supporting the Palestinian cause and the inalienable rights of the Palestinian people. This is further underscored by the move toward a strategic partnership agreement—pursuant to Council of Ministers Resolution 297 of 2025—under which Iraq has pledged to provide $30 million in financial support to the agency for the 2025–2027 period.
E. Iraq’s Contribution to Peacekeeping Forces
Participation in peacekeeping missions serves as a tool through which Iraq can enhance its international standing and demonstrate its transition from a recipient of security assistance to a contributor to such efforts.
F. The Closure of the UNAMI Mission within the Framework of the Transition and Liquidation Plan
The matter of closing the United Nations Assistance Mission for Iraq (UNAMI)… The United Nations Assistance Mission for Iraq (UNAMI) represents a transitional phase in the relationship between Iraq and the United Nations, following more than two decades of UN political presence in the country. This file is managed through the department’s participation in the committees established by Diwani Orders 248808 and 250216.
G. Preparations for the High-Level Week of the 81st Session of the UN General Assembly
The annual High-Level Week serves as the platform for presenting Iraq’s official political stance to the international community, highlighting its priorities in foreign policy, security, and development. The department works with relevant units to ensure Iraq is effectively represented, leveraging this participation to hold impactful bilateral meetings with world leaders and heads of international organizations. Efforts are focused on diplomatic engagement regarding issues of national and regional priority, while promoting a positive image of Iraq internationally and enhancing its visibility in the media.
- Disarmament Department:
Key issues and topics to be addressed by the Disarmament Department during 2026:
First: United Nations Office for Disarmament Affairs (UNODA) – Headquarters (New York).
Second: United Nations Office for Disarmament Affairs (UNODA) – Geneva Branch.
Third: United Nations Office for Disarmament Affairs (UNODA) – Vienna Office.
Fourth: Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW).
- Environment Department:
Key issues and topics to be addressed by the Environment Department during 2026:
Meetings of the 16th Session of the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) – Abu Dhabi.
Meetings of the specialized committees of the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands – Geneva.
Meetings of… High-Level Political Forum (HLPF) on Sustainable Development – New York.
Preparatory climate meetings held annually in Bonn, Germany.
Meetings of the Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD COP17) – Bonn.
Meetings of the Conference of the Parties to the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD COP17) – Armenia.
Meetings regarding the Global Framework on Chemicals – Geneva.
Meetings of the Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP31) – Antalya.
Meetings of the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee (INC) to develop an international legally binding instrument to end plastic pollution, including in the marine environment.
Third United Nations Water Conference, to be held from December 8–10, 2026, in Abu Dhabi.
4. Islamic Cooperation Department
Key issues and topics to be addressed by the Islamic Cooperation Department during 2026:
a- Following up on and finalizing the arrangements for the 52nd session of the OIC Council of Foreign Ministers.
b- Following up on and finalizing the arrangements for the 6th session of the OIC Conference of Youth and Sports Ministers.
c- Proposal to host the 7th session of the Union of OIC News Agencies (UNA).
- Agencies Department:
Key issues and topics to be addressed by the Agencies Department during 2026:
First: Monitoring the implementation of UNIDO projects in Iraq.
Second: Monitoring the implementation of International Labour Organization (ILO) projects.
Third: Monitoring the implementation of UNICEF projects.
Fourth: Follow-up on the implementation of a contribution with the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO).
Fifth: Follow-up on the implementation of a project with the World Customs Organization (WCO).
Sixth: UNESCO.
Seventh: International Organization for Migration (IOM).
Eighth: United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).
Legal Department
Head of Department: Ambassador Dr. Hussein Younis
Deputy Head of Department: Counselor Dr. Farouq Youssef Mustafa
Deputy Head of Department: Counselor Dr. Ghassan Mahsad Khaled
Department Functions
The Legal Department carries out the following responsibilities:
1- Providing opinions on various matters referred to it for decision-making.
2- Studying legal issues that fall within the purview of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
3- Offering legal advice and counsel to the Ministry’s various departments.
4- Following up on domestic legal cases in which the Ministry of Foreign Affairs is a party.
5- Following up on international legal cases in which Iraq is a party.
6- Addressing matters related to international law and international humanitarian law, in coordination and cooperation with relevant Iraqi ministries.
7- Managing the processes for concluding agreements, memoranda of understanding, and treaties, and preparing authorization documents for negotiation and signature.
8- Handling issues related to compensation, borders, and water resources.
9- Addressing matters concerning refugees, missing persons, and prisoners of war.
Departmental Sections and Operations
The Legal Department comprises the following sections:
International Legal Affairs Section: This section is tasked with following up on legal cases filed by or against Iraq abroad, in coordination with relevant Iraqi authorities and Iraqi diplomatic missions. It is also responsible for appointing legal counsel for these missions, as well as tracking issues related to Iraqi antiquities smuggled abroad and the procedures for their recovery. In addition to handling matters related to counter-terrorism and narcotics, the International Court of Justice (including support for the nomination of judges), other relevant courts, and issues addressed by the Sixth Committee of the United Nations.
Internal Legal Affairs Department: This department provides legal opinions on matters referred to it, offers general legal counsel, represents the Ministry in litigation—whether as a plaintiff or defendant—before various economic bodies within Iraq, monitors the status of foreign nationals held in Iraqi prisons, and manages the extradition of Iraqi suspects wanted by Iraqi judicial authorities through coordination with Iraqi diplomatic missions.
Borders and Water Department: This department oversees all issues pertaining to borders and water, in coordination with the relevant ministries.
Treaties Department: This department manages the procedures for concluding bilateral agreements and memoranda of understanding (MoUs), represents the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in negotiations for such agreements and MoUs, handles Iraq’s accession to various international conventions, and prepares the necessary authorization documents for negotiations and the signing of agreements.
Reparations Department: This department follows up on the reparations file—specifically those mandated by the United Nations Compensation Commission—in coordination with the relevant official authorities.
International Humanitarian Law Department: This department addresses issues concerning prisoners, missing persons, the remains of war victims, and refugees, in coordination with the relevant ministries; it also provides legal opinions on matters related to humanitarian affairs.
Department Email Address: [email protected]
Americas Department
Head of Department: Ambassador Dr. Salih Munshid Dhamad Al-Saadi
Deputy Head of Department: Counselor Ahmed Abd Ali Abbas
Deputy Head of Department: Counselor Hawazen Ghazi Karim
Department Functions:
The department is tasked with strengthening relations between the Republic of Iraq and countries across North America, South America, and the Caribbean. It works to foster friendly ties and establish channels of communication between Iraq and nations in these regions across various sectors—including political, economic, commercial, cultural, and academic/educational spheres. Furthermore, it facilitates correspondence between Iraqi institutions and missions abroad, and foreign diplomatic missions accredited to Iraq.
Department Sections and Their Functions:
United States Section: Responsible for managing matters related to relations with the United States of America.
American Think Tanks Section: Responsible for monitoring research papers and reports issued by think tanks located throughout North and South America.
Northern Section: Responsible for managing matters related to countries in North America (Canada and Mexico).
Southern Section: Responsible for managing matters related to countries in South America and the Caribbean region.
Department Email Address: [email protected]
Communication & IT Department
Department of Communications and Information Technology
Deputy Head of Department: Counselor firas alhamadani
Department Functions:
Installing, securing, operating, and maintaining the communication systems required to connect the Ministry’s departments with our diplomatic missions abroad; and developing and preparing the software and information technology programs necessary for the operations of the Ministry’s departments and missions.
The Department consists of the Office of the Head of Department and four divisions, which are responsible for the tasks and duties outlined below:
Information Technology (IT) Division – Responsibilities:
– Designing, developing, and installing software for the Ministry’s departments and missions, tailored to their specific requirements.
– Providing and implementing electronic documentation and archiving systems for all Ministry departments.
– Organizing specialized and professional development courses in the field of communications and information technology for Ministry staff, in coordination with the Foreign Service Institute.
– Participating in committees, conferences, and specialized seminars related to communications and information technology, both within and outside Iraq.
Systems Division – Responsibilities:
– Providing and facilitating internet access for the Ministry.
– Establishing secure connections between the Ministry’s headquarters and missions abroad via Virtual Private Networks (VPN).
– Designing and maintaining the internal networks (intranets) for the Ministry and its missions abroad.
– Organizing specialized and professional development courses in the field of communications and information technology for Ministry staff, in coordination with the Foreign Service Institute.
– Implementing, installing, operating, and maintaining the email system connecting the Ministry’s headquarters with its missions abroad. – Provision, installation, operation, and maintenance of a file-sharing system (shared folders) within the Ministry’s headquarters.
Communications Department – Responsibilities include:
– Provision, setup, and maintenance of wired communication systems (telephone exchanges and handsets) within the Ministry.
– Provision and setup of wireless communication systems (radios/transceivers) for the Ministry.
– Operation, maintenance, and repair of communication systems, equipment, and devices to ensure they function according to standard specifications.
– Coordination and follow-up with various mobile network operators regarding telecommunications services.
– Provision, installation, operation, and maintenance of a dedicated internal mail/courier system between the Ministry’s headquarters and its diplomatic missions.
Technical Support Department – Responsibilities include:
– Procuring the Ministry’s requirements for printer ink, computers, and computer peripherals.
– Maintaining and servicing all computers, printers, and peripherals at the Ministry’s headquarters.
Department Email Address: [email protected]
Department of Political Planning
Head of Department: Ambassador Alaa Al-Din Riad Mohammed Al-Nasiri
Deputy Head of Department: Counselor Dr. Ali Abdul-Karim Atiwi
Deputy Head of Department: Counselor Dr. Saad Fadala Hamza
Departmental Functions and Sections:
– Developing the Ministry’s plan, based on the priorities of Iraqi foreign policy and the strategic objectives of the government program, in coordination with the Office of the Undersecretary for Political Planning and other departments within the Ministry.
– Implementing and monitoring the components of the government program as they pertain to the Ministry.
– Formulating strategies regarding issues that fall within the scope and mandate of the Department. Preparing studies, research, and policy papers concerning the political, developmental, and security aspects of Iraq’s foreign policy, and submitting them to decision-makers and ministry leadership, while taking into account current priorities and strategic shifts at both the regional and international levels.
Monitoring regional and international crises and conducting studies on them—analyzing their causes and their repercussions for the domestic and regional situation—while including potential recommendations.
Developing preliminary human resources plans for the ministry and allocating personnel across its various divisions; reviewing the organizational structure and its operational levels; and establishing structures and regulations for any newly created administrative units.
Department email address: [email protected]
Policy Planning Department
Head of the Department: Ambassador Alaa El-Din Riad Mohammed Al-Nasiri
Deputy Head of the Department: Counselor Dr. Ali Abdul-Karim Atiwi
Deputy Head of the Department: Counselor Dr. Saad Fadala Hamza
Department Functions and Divisions
Developing the Ministry’s plan, based on the priorities of Iraqi foreign policy and the strategic objectives of the government program, in coordination with the Office of the Undersecretary for Political Planning and other Ministry departments.
Implementing and monitoring the components of the government program within the Ministry.
Formulating strategies regarding issues that fall within the scope and mandate of the Department.
Preparing studies, research, and policy papers concerning political, developmental, and security aspects of Iraq’s foreign policy, and presenting them to the Ministry’s leadership—the decision-makers—while taking into account current priorities and strategic shifts at both the regional and international levels.
Monitoring regional and international crises, conducting studies on them to identify their causes and repercussions for the local and regional situation, and providing potential recommendations.
Developing preliminary human resources plans for the Ministry and allocating personnel across its various divisions; reviewing the organizational structure and its operational levels; and establishing structures and regulations for any newly created administrative units.
Department Email Address: [email protected]
Arab Department
Head of the Department: Ambassador Dr. Osama Mahdi Ghanem
Deputy Head of the Department: Counselor Nawar Sadiq Jawad
Deputy Head of the Department: Counselor Rokan Abdul Khaliq Hamid
Deputy Head of the Department: Counselor Sawsan Muwaffaq Ibrahim
Functions of the Arab Department:
The Arab Department is one of the political departments within the Ministry. It is responsible for overseeing and managing Iraq’s bilateral relations with Arab states, fostering their development, and strengthening cooperation across political, economic, security, and cultural spheres. In short, it is the entity within the Ministry of Foreign Affairs tasked with coordinating and monitoring Iraq’s policy and relations with Arab states and the League of Arab States.
Role of the Arab Department:
Its primary tasks include:
1- Preparing studies and reports concerning the situations and policies within Arab states.
2- Monitoring bilateral relations between Iraq and Arab states and proposing ways to further develop them.
3- Following up on agreements, treaties, and memoranda of understanding between Iraq and Arab states.
4- Tracking joint activities and files related to political, economic, security, cultural, and other matters.
5- Managing Iraq’s relationship with the League of Arab States and participating in its meetings and activities.
Administrative Organizational Structure:
The administrative organizational structure of the Arab Department consists of the following:
1- The League [of Arab States] Division.
2- The Egypt and Sudan Division.
3- The Arab Levant (Mashriq) Division.
4- The Arab Maghreb Division.
5- The Arab Gulf Division.
Department Email Address: [email protected]
Neighboring Countries Department
Head of the Department of Neighboring Countries: Ambassador Laith Al-Adhari
Deputy Head of the Department: Counselor Makki Risan Abdullah
Deputy Head of the Department: Counselor Yassin Mohammed Daham
Nature of the Department’s Work:
This is a political department concerned with bilateral relations between the Republic of Iraq and both the Islamic Republic of Iran and the Republic of Turkey. Its scope covers various fields—including political, economic, cultural, and security matters, as well as official visits—and involves negotiating outstanding issues such as borders, water resources, and more. The department also coordinates on relevant matters with other political, legal, and technical departments. It consists of the following sections:
- Iran Section: This section manages all joint bilateral files (political, economic, cultural, official visits, borders, water, shared oil fields, border crossings, etc.) between the Republic of Iraq and the Islamic Republic of Iran. It facilitates correspondence between the two nations and provides political assessments on matters within its purview.
Iraq maintains a diplomatic presence in the Islamic Republic of Iran through an embassy in Tehran, headed by Ambassador Naseer Abdul Mohsen Abdullah, in addition to three consulates-general located in Mashhad, Ahvaz, and Kermanshah.
The Islamic Republic of Iran maintains a diplomatic presence in Iraq through an embassy in Baghdad, headed by Ambassador Mohammad Kazem Al-Sadeq, in addition to five consulates-general located in Najaf, Karbala, Basra, Erbil, and Sulaymaniyah.
2. Turkey Department: This department handles all bilateral files—covering political, security, economic, and cultural matters, as well as issues related to borders, water resources, border crossings, and official visits—between the Republic of Iraq and the Republic of Turkey. It facilitates correspondence between the two nations and provides political assessments on relevant issues.
Iraq maintains a diplomatic presence in Turkey through an embassy in Ankara, headed by the Chargé d’Affaires ad interim, Counselor Khalil Ibrahim Mahmoud, in addition to consulates general in Istanbul and Gaziantep.
Turkey maintains a diplomatic presence in Iraq through an embassy in Baghdad, headed by Ambassador Ali Rıza Güney, as well as a consulate general in Erbil. There is also a consulate general in Basra (currently inactive) and a consulate general in Mosul (which has been closed due to the security situation in that province).
- Administration: Carrying out all administrative tasks for the department.
- Email: Managing the receipt and dispatch of the department’s correspondence.
- Secretariat.
Asia & Australia Department
Head of the Department: Ambassador Prof. Dr. Basim Hattab Al-Ta’ma
Deputy Head of the Department: Minister Plenipotentiary Mai Khalid Omran
Deputy Head of the Department: Counselor Dr. Miqdad Ayoub Saadi
Deputy Head of the Department: Counselor Muath Abdul Wahab Abdul Razzaq
Department Mandate:
The Department of Asia and Australia strives to strengthen and follow up on bilateral relations with countries located within the broad geographical scope of the Asian continent, as well as Australia and New Zealand, working to develop these relations across various fields.
Department Sections and Their Functions:
1- South Asia Section: Responsible for following up on and developing bilateral relations between Iraq and the following countries: India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and the Maldives.
2- East Asia Section: Manages bilateral relations between Iraq and both Japan and the Republic of Korea across various sectors, particularly in the diplomatic, political, and economic spheres. It also works to foster a favorable diplomatic environment for the development of these relations, in line with the strategic importance of these two pivotal East Asian nations. 3- Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Section: Responsible for following up on and developing bilateral relations between Iraq and the following countries: Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Vietnam, Thailand, Singapore, Myanmar (Burma), Brunei, Laos, and Cambodia. 4- Central and West Asia Department: This department oversees and manages political, economic, and cultural files aimed at developing bilateral relations between Iraq and the countries of Central and West Asia—namely Kazakhstan, Afghanistan, Azerbaijan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan, and Kyrgyzstan. The department monitors political, security, and economic developments in these nations; prepares studies, reports, and position papers; and follows up on agreements, memoranda of understanding, and the minutes of joint committee meetings. It also coordinates with Iraqi diplomatic missions abroad and foreign diplomatic missions accredited to the Republic of Iraq, in addition to handling matters related to the “Conference on Interaction and Confidence Building Measures in Asia” (CICA). 5- Australia and New Zealand Department: This department monitors and develops bilateral relations between Iraq, Australia, and New Zealand across political, economic, and cultural spheres, while also fostering parliamentary ties. It works actively to enhance these relations through coordination with Iraqi embassies in Canberra and Wellington, as well as the embassies of Australia and New Zealand in Baghdad.
6- China Department: This department monitors and develops bilateral relations between the Republic of Iraq and the People’s Republic of China across various political, economic, and cultural fields.
7- Administration Division: This division handles all administrative affairs and tasks related to the department. 8- Electronic Correspondence Division: This division manages the receipt and dispatch of all electronic correspondence pertaining to the department. Department email address: [email protected]
Europe Department
Head of Department: Ambassador Bakr Fattah Hussein
Deputy Head of Department: Counselor Izzat Faiq Ali
Deputy Head of Department: Counselor Dr. Ali Rasoul Hussein
Deputy Head of Department: Counselor Ammar Mohammed Fadhil
Department Functions:
1- Preparing political reports concerning European countries and monitoring relevant regional and international developments.
2- Formulating pathways for bilateral cooperation and developing political, economic, cultural, scientific, and security relations with European countries.
3- Coordinating and overseeing official visits and bilateral meetings, preparing dossiers on key issues, and providing necessary briefings to higher authorities.
4- Following up on the implementation of agreements and memoranda of understanding signed with European countries, and monitoring the level of compliance with their provisions.
5- Supervising the work of Iraqi diplomatic missions (both resident and non-resident) in Europe, evaluating their performance, and submitting periodic reports thereon.
6- Monitoring the activities of European missions accredited to Iraq and strengthening communication mechanisms with them to serve Iraq’s supreme national interests.
7- Supporting efforts aimed at revitalizing economic, investment, and trade cooperation, and coordinating with relevant national entities to bolster this sector.
8- Attending to the affairs of Iraqi communities in European countries, in coordination with Iraqi missions accredited to those nations.
Department Sections and Their Functions:
- Northern Europe Section: Covers the Kingdom of Sweden, the Kingdom of Denmark, the Kingdom of Norway, the Republic of Finland, the Republic of Estonia, and the Republic of Iceland. • Western Europe Division: Includes the Federal Republic of Germany, the United Kingdom, the Republic of Ireland, the French Republic, the Kingdom of the Netherlands, the Kingdom of Belgium, the Republic of Austria, the Republic of Slovenia, the Swiss Confederation, and the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg.
- Southern Europe Division: Includes the Italian Republic, the Kingdom of Spain, the Portuguese Republic, the Hellenic Republic (Greece), Vatican City State, the Republic of Croatia, the Republic of Serbia, the Republic of Cyprus, the Republic of Malta, the Republic of San Marino, Montenegro, the Republic of North Macedonia, and Bosnia and Herzegovina.
- Russian Federation Division.
- European Union Division: Includes the European Parliament, the European Commission, the European Council, the Council of the European Union, the European Investment Bank, the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), the European Union Mission, and the European Union Security Sector Reform Mission.
- Eastern Europe Division: Includes Hungary, Romania, the Republic of Bulgaria, the Czech Republic, the Republic of Poland, the Republic of Latvia, the Republic of Lithuania, the Republic of Albania, and the Republic of Moldova.
- Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) Division: Includes Ukraine, the Republic of Armenia, Georgia, and the Republic of Belarus.
- Administration Division: Responsible for managing internal and external correspondence, documenting files and minutes, and maintaining the department’s archives. Department email addresses:
Incoming: [email protected]
Outgoing: [email protected]
Africa Department
Head of Department: Ambassador Hassanein Hadi Fadhil
Deputy Head of Department: Counselor Haider Rashid Swadi
Deputy Head of Department: Counselor Yasser Musa Jaafar
Department Functions:
The Africa Department is a political department that oversees relations with several countries in Central and Southern Africa, specifically: Senegal, Nigeria, Kenya, and South Africa.
Department Sections:
Southern Africa Section: Responsible for monitoring bilateral relations between Iraq and the countries within this region, working to implement signed bilateral agreements across all sectors, and facilitating official visits between government officials.
Central Africa Section: Focuses on activating joint committees and facilitating official visits, in addition to monitoring bilateral relations and internal developments within the countries of Central Africa.
Department Email Address: [email protected]
Economic Department
Head of the Department: Ambassador Ali Haitham Al-Maliki
Deputy Head of the Department: Counselor Dr. Ghassan Mohammed
Deputy Head of the Department: Counselor Mohammed Nouri Muthanna
Functions of the Department
The Economic Department facilitates coordination between various ministries and sectoral institutions within Iraq and their Arab and international counterparts through our diplomatic and consular missions abroad. It also organizes seminars and forums designed to bolster and support economic diplomacy.
The Department aims to keep the Iraqi economy informed of regional and international economic developments, and to foster an exchange of ideas and proposals with external partners—all with the goal of strengthening the capabilities of Iraq’s various economic sectors. This work is carried out through specialized units—organized into departments and sections—namely: the Department of Organizations and International Cooperation, the Department of Investment and Sustainable Development, the Department of Energy, and the Department of Specialized Committees.
Human Rights Department
Head of the Department: Ambassador Firas Hassan Jabbar
Deputy Head of the Department: Counselor Alaa Sami Mohammed
Deputy Head of the Department: Counselor Zaitoun Faraj Abdullah
Functions of the Department:
Acts as an intermediary between Iraqi entities, international bodies, and United Nations organizations.
Represents Iraq in international forums—such as meetings and conferences concerning human rights—including the UN Human Rights Council, the Third Committee of the UN General Assembly, regional committees, and other international conferences and activities.
Monitors international and regional developments in the field of human rights, assesses their impact on the domestic situation in Iraq, and communicates these findings to the relevant national authorities.
Monitors Iraq’s implementation of its obligations under international human rights conventions and treaties, and submits periodic reports to international bodies, such as UN treaty bodies and specialized committees.
Provides information regarding the application of human rights standards within national policies and programs, and shares this information with relevant UN entities upon request, in coordination with national stakeholders—including government bodies, institutions, and other Iraqi ministries.
Follows up on complaints and reports of human rights violations—whether raised by citizens or organizations—and coordinates with the competent authorities to take necessary action.
Strengthens cooperation with other nations and international non-governmental organizations to enhance Iraq’s human rights capabilities and to facilitate the exchange of expertise and information.
Participates in the preparation of periodic reports on Iraq’s implementation of its international obligations, as well as in the development of domestic plans and policies. Core International Human Rights Treaties:
Iraq is a party to 8 out of 9 core international human rights treaties. In accordance with these agreements, Iraq submits periodic reports every four years regarding the implementation of its obligations, as listed below:
International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights.
International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights.
International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination.
Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women.
Convention on the Rights of the Child.
Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Rights of the Child on the involvement of children in armed conflict.
Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Rights of the Child on the sale of children, child prostitution and child pornography.
6. Convention against Torture.
7. International Convention for the Protection of All Persons from Enforced Disappearance.
8. Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.
Department Email Address: [email protected]
Consular Department
Head of Department: Ambassador Dr. Falah Abdul-Hassan
Deputy Head of Department: Director General Ghanem Abdul-Karim Al-Ghanem
Deputy Head of Department: Counselor Duraid Musab Hussein
Deputy Head of Department: Counselor Haider Ramzi Saeed
Department Functions:
The Department provides comprehensive consular services to all Iraqis residing abroad, across various countries worldwide. It also handles consular matters for all Arabs and foreign nationals residing in Iraq.
The Consular Department serves as a gateway for Iraqis within the country to the outside world, and as a point of access for Iraqis living abroad to Iraqi government departments and ministries.
Department Sections and Operations:
Diplomatic, Service, and Ordinary Passports and Consular Supplies Section: This section comprises the Diplomatic and Service Passports Unit, and the Ordinary Passports and Consular Supplies Unit. Its responsibilities include verifying the authenticity of passports and travel documents issued by the Ministry of Interior or diplomatic missions; granting “no-objection” clearances for passport issuance; verifying passport-related claims; recovering passports; processing exemptions from biometric (fingerprint) requirements; overseeing the operation of the machine-readable passport issuance system; handling applications for diplomatic and service passports for Ministry of Foreign Affairs officials and staff; and issuing “no-objection” clearances in cases of lost passports.
Visas Section: This section consists of the following units:
– Arabs and Foreign Nationals Unit.
– Iraqi Government Envoys (Official Missions) Unit.
– Religious Tourism Companies Unit. Communicating with Arab and foreign embassies within the country, as well as with our diplomatic missions abroad, to facilitate the issuance of entry visas for government officials and to grant entry visas to Arab and foreign nationals.
Attestations Department: This department consists of the following sections:
– Verification of Authenticity (Power of Attorney/Legal Instruments) Section:
This section handles the necessary correspondence to verify the authenticity of documents upon the request of any official entity—whether Iraqi missions abroad, foreign missions within Iraq, or Iraqi ministries, departments, and institutions.
– Document Attestation Section:
This section authenticates documents issued by our diplomatic missions and attachés abroad, as well as documents issued by Iraqi ministries, government departments, universities, and foreign missions in Iraq.
– Attestations Administration Section:
This section is responsible for the management of the Attestations Department, including personnel affairs and the provision of all necessary resources to carry out the department’s assigned tasks.
Iraqis Affairs Department: This department comprises four sections:
– Notifications Section: Handles judicial notifications between state ministries and our diplomatic missions abroad (and vice versa).
– Health Section: Processes death and birth certificates, obtains approvals for the repatriation of the remains of Iraqi nationals from abroad, and manages the entry of armored vehicles into Iraq.
– Internal Affairs Section: Handles the issuance and verification of Iraqi nationality certificates, civil status identification cards, certificates of good conduct (non-criminal record), and driver’s licenses for Iraqis residing abroad; it also manages files concerning all Iraqi nationals detained abroad. – General Section: Handles transactions for all citizens visiting the Consular Department, including travel no-objection certificates, the return of displaced persons, and other correspondence not falling under the purview of other sections.
Arab and Foreign Nationals Section: Comprises the following:
– Arab and African Countries Section
– European and Americas Section
– Asian Countries, Australia, and New Zealand Section
The section’s mandate is to look after the interests of Arab and foreign nationals in Iraq and to liaise with Arab and foreign embassies in this regard.
Consular Affairs Section: Manages consular affairs both abroad and domestically. It consists of the following:
– Consular Affairs Abroad Section
– Consular Affairs (Domestic) Section
Email, Outgoing, and Incoming Correspondence Section: Comprises the following:
Email Section:
– Email unit for the “Iraqi Nationals” and “Arab and Foreign Nationals” sections
– Email unit for document authenticity verification (validity of issuance)
– Email unit for the “Visas” and “Passports” sections, responsible for sending and receiving correspondence to and from all Iraqi diplomatic missions abroad.
– Outgoing and Incoming Correspondence Section: Comprises the following:
– Outgoing and incoming correspondence unit for the “Arab and Foreign Nationals,” “Iraqi Nationals,” and “Attestations” sections.
– Outgoing and incoming correspondence unit for the “Visas” and “Passports” sections, responsible for processing all outgoing and incoming official communications for the Consular Department, preparing documents for dispatch, forwarding them to the relevant authorities, and archiving incoming correspondence. – Administration Division: Issues administrative orders regarding the commencement and termination of duties, as well as circulars concerning the consulate’s operations. It is also responsible for supplying the department’s various sections with stationery, hospitality items, bottled water, and office furniture, and for distributing circulars received from the Ministry to the relevant sections for implementation.
– Accounts Division: Collects all consular fees from transactions processed for citizens, government ministries, and companies; the funds collected are subsequently deposited into the Ministry’s treasury account.
– Electronic Archiving Division: Comprises five archiving branches—one for each section of the department—tasked with archiving official correspondence and documents (both incoming and outgoing) for the current year as well as for previous years.
Department Email Addresses: [email protected]
Media Department
Head of the Department: Dr. Ali Yassin Mohammed Karim
Deputy Head of the Department: Counselor Ahmed Anwar Abdulhamid
Department Functions:
Highlighting the role, positions, and work of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, as well as developments occurring both within Iraq and on the regional and international stages.
Representing the Ministry in various forums, meetings, and media-related workshops, both domestically and internationally.
Developing and training media skills to prepare specialized media personnel for diplomatic missions.
Enhancing the media skills of the Ministry’s staff.
Supervising the operations of media units established within some of our diplomatic missions abroad.
The Media Department consists of the following sections:
A- Public Diplomacy and Media Coordination Section, which carries out the following tasks:
Preparing and coordinating press conferences and media interviews.
Managing the Ministry’s relationship with media outlets.
Coordinating media-related communications between the Ministry’s headquarters and our diplomatic missions abroad via the “in & out” system.
Regulating media relations between media outlets and foreign missions or organizations present in Iraq.
Promoting and disseminating news regarding the Ministry’s activities and official statements.
Managing the operations of the Diplomatic Forum.
B- Media, Website, and Translation Section, which carries out the following tasks:
– Drafting press content covering all news and activities of the Minister and the Ministry.
– Managing and programming the Ministry’s website (in both Arabic and English).
– Managing the Ministry’s official social media accounts (Facebook, Twitter, Telegram, Instagram, and YouTube).
– Managing the Ministry’s mobile application for smartphones. – Managing the operation of advertising screens within the Ministry building and organizing the content displayed on them. Preparing, issuing, and distributing a weekly media position paper.
C- Monitoring and Analysis Department, which performs the following tasks:
– Monitoring the stances of countries and organizations regarding Iraq, as well as regional and international issues, across various media outlets.
– Tracking news and activities concerning the Minister and the Ministry as reported by local and foreign media.
– Monitoring criticisms and reactions in the media regarding the political and diplomatic positions taken by the Minister and the Ministry.
– Providing professional opinions and journalistic analysis of the news, views, and media stances monitored.
– Monitoring and tracking content published on social media platforms.
E- Administration and Archive Department, which performs the following tasks:
– Sending, receiving, and sorting correspondence for the Media Office.
– Coordinating the issuance of entry visas for foreign journalists.
– Managing paper and electronic archiving.
– Overseeing the administrative affairs of the office.
F- Foreign Journalists Department, which performs the following tasks:
1- Obtaining entry visa approvals for foreign journalists.
2- Securing official authorizations for the entry of technical equipment and gear used by media personnel, in coordination with the Communications and Media Commission.
3- Conducting background research on journalists and the media organizations they represent who wish to visit Iraq.
4- Coordinating with the “I2N” system for security vetting to expedite the issuance of entry visas for journalists planning to visit Iraq.
K- Magazine Department
5- Editing and publishing the Ministry’s magazine. 2- Editing and designing the Ministry’s print and electronic magazine.
6- Monitoring and supervising all of the Ministry’s publications.
7- The editorial board of the Ministry’s magazine.
Department email address: [email protected]
Foreign Services Institue
Dean of the Institute: Dr. Mohammed Abdullah Al-Shammari
Deputy Dean of the Institute: Counselor Ubayy Ni’matallah Khalil
Deputy Dean of the Institute: Counselor Haider Abdul Razzaq Khalaf
Deputy Dean of the Institute: Director General Dr. Iman Mohammed Jabr
Foreign Service Institute
The Foreign Service Institute was established in 1973. Its mandate includes training and developing young diplomats through modern programs, preparing them to become competent diplomatic personnel.
Functions of the Institute
The Institute is tasked with preparing the diplomatic and administrative staff required for the Ministry’s operations. This is achieved by organizing qualifying and professional development courses in the fields of languages and diplomacy, as well as contributing to the development of diplomatic training programs for other state institutions.
Departments of the Institute
Department of Qualification and Research: Responsible for the following tasks:
a- Designing and organizing relevant training courses.
b- Supervising and monitoring research papers submitted by Ministry staff for the purpose of professional advancement (promotion to a higher rank).
Department of Overseas Training:
Facilitates training opportunities abroad for Ministry staff—including diplomats and other personnel—to enable them to acquire modern skills.
Library Department:
Provides the Ministry’s various departments with necessary information through books, publications, and contemporary periodicals available in the library.
Institute Email Address: [email protected]