Italian FM: Iraq Is A Strategic Partner For Italy In The Region

Baghdad / NINA /- Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani said on Friday that Iraq is a strategic partner for Italy in the Middle East.

According to a statement by the Iraqi Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Tajani held in-depth discussions with Deputy Prime Minister, Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein on regional developments, particularly the situations in Gaza, Syria, Lebanon, and Iran.

Tajani noted that around 500 Italian troops are currently deployed in Iraq as part of bilateral and multilateral training missions under the framework of the Global Coalition to Defeat ISIS and NATO’s mission in the country, stressing that Iraq remains a key strategic partner for Italy in the region.

He reaffirmed Italy’s commitment to supporting international efforts aimed at ending the crisis in Gaza, backing a comprehensive political process in Syria, and supporting stability in Lebanon, particularly in light of developments related to the activities of the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL). He also underscored the importance of resuming dialogue between Iran and the United States on the nuclear file.

Regarding Iraq’s internal affairs, Tajani expressed Italy’s readiness to cooperate with the new Iraqi government once it assumes office, following the parliamentary elections held in November.

He also welcomed the approaching conclusion of the United Nations Assistance Mission for Iraq (UNAMI), describing it as a result of the progress achieved in strengthening security and stability in the country. In this context, he said that the partial revision of travel advisories for visitors to Iraq reflects the positive security developments.

On the economic front, Tajani highlighted the strong presence of Italian companies in Iraq, particularly in the energy, infrastructure, and healthcare sectors, reaffirming the importance of enhancing economic cooperation across strategic fields and exploring opportunities offered by major projects, notably Iraq’s Development Road project, as well as the India–Middle East–Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC)./ End