Plasschaert In End Of Year Message: Iraq Will Undoubtedly Continue To Face Multiple Storms At Once

Baghdad / NINA / -The Special Representative of the Secretary-General of the United Nations in Iraq, Jeanine Hennis-Plasschaert, expressed, today, Thursday, her hope that the current health crisis will soon become a page of the past, and give space and time to address the problems and seize the opportunities that lie ahead. In a statement marking the end of the year, which the National Iraqi News Agency / NINA / received a copy of it, Plasschaert said: “We have all been affected, in one way or another, by the global pandemic. Iraq, like the rest of the world, has suffered immensely. Sadly, COVID-19 has compounded Iraq’s already daunting security, political, social and economic challenges. With the arrival of a new year, and the promise of a vaccine, I very much hope that this immediate health crisis will soon become part of the past, thereby giving space and time to tackle problems and seize opportunities that lie ahead of us. The new year will not be an easy ride, as Iraq will undoubtedly continue to face multiple storms at once, from economic and security challenges to the pressing need for reform. Elections are set for June 2021, giving the Iraqi people the opportunity to have their voices heard as they chart their political future. The credibility of these elections, and the commitment of all stakeholders to them, will prove essential. This past October, the UN celebrated its 75th anniversary in the service of humanity. Iraq is a founding member of the United Nations: we look forward to continuing our partnership as we work together for a safer, more prosperous and just society. She ended her message by expressing wishes to Iraqis and their loved ones happy holidays./ End