FM: The Partnership Between Iraq And The UN Is Firmly Established And Not Temporary Or Fleeting

 Baghdad / NINA/ - Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Foreign Affairs Fuad Hussein affirmed on Saturday that the partnership between Iraq and the United Nations is deeply rooted and solid, and not the result of a temporary or passing circumstance.

In a speech delivered on the occasion marking the conclusion of the mandate of the United Nations Assistance Mission for Iraq (UNAMI), Hussein said that the event represents a pivotal moment carrying profound significance, stressing that the relationship between Iraq and the United Nations has been built on firm foundations of constructive cooperation and joint action, extending over decades in the service of peace, development, and human rights.

He noted that UNAMI’s departure does not, in any way, signal the end of this partnership, but rather marks a natural transition to a new phase in which cooperation will be managed through the UN Country Team based in Baghdad, in line with Iraq’s priorities and strategic vision, and grounded in the mutual trust established through years of joint work.

The Foreign Minister emphasized that Iraq is standing today at a truly historic moment, underlining that the partnership with UNAMI was not merely a UN mission in a country facing difficult circumstances, but a shared success story founded on significant sacrifices, strong national will, and tangible efforts by the United Nations and its various teams.

Hussein praised the support provided by UNAMI across multiple fields, particularly its role in supporting the electoral process, including the most recent parliamentary elections, as well as its contributions to reconstruction efforts and the strengthening of stability.

He stressed that Iraq will not forget the human sacrifices made by the mission, foremost among them the late Sergio de Mello, the first Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General for Iraq, who lost his life while carrying out his duties in Iraq in 2003, along with other victims who sacrificed their lives in the service of peace and humanity. In this context, he expressed the deep sympathy of the Government of the Republic of Iraq with the family of Sergio de Mello and the families of all the victims.

The Foreign Minister concluded by affirming that as Iraq opens a new chapter of cooperation with the United Nations, it does so with greater confidence, deeper determination, and aspirations toward a more prosperous future./ End