Al-Araji: End of Global Coalition mission marks new phase in Iraq’s relations

PUKMEDIA

Qasim al-Araji.

Iraq has reached a significant milestone with the conclusion of the Global Coalition’s mission and the withdrawal of its forces, paving the way for bilateral relations with Coalition member states, Prime Minister’s National Security Advisor Qasim al-Araji said on Wednesday.

In a statement, Al-Araji said the development would reinforce Iraq’s sovereignty, advance its national interests and support the aspirations of the Iraqi people.

“Building on the negotiations and understandings that began on 22 July 2021, in which I had the honour of participating during my previous tenure as National Security Advisor, we have reached a crucial stage today,” he said.

He said the conclusion of the Coalition’s mission and the departure of its forces would be followed by a transition to bilateral relations with its member states.

“This step reinforces our sovereignty and serves Iraq’s national interests and the aspirations of our people,” Al-Araji said.

He stressed that the defeat of ISIS had been achieved through the sacrifices of Iraqis and the courage of the country’s armed forces across all branches and units, with support from the Global Coalition and friendly and brotherly countries.

“We deeply appreciate and value this support,” he said.

Al-Araji emphasised that the end of the Coalition’s mission did not mean an end to cooperation.

“Rather, it marks the beginning of a transition towards stronger bilateral relations,” he said, adding that security and intelligence cooperation would continue through information and expertise sharing and capacity-building programmes.

He said the new approach, based on mutual respect and shared interests, would contribute to strengthening security and stability while supporting Iraq’s aspirations for lasting peace, development and prosperity.


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