Baghdad announces strategic shift in relations with UN assistance mission
In a pivotal meeting held on Thursday at the 54th World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani engaged in discussions with United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, revealing Iraq’s decision to redefine its partnership with the United Nations Assistance Mission for Iraq (UNAMI).
The decision, as conveyed by the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO), stems from Iraq’s successful establishment of robust constitutional institutions and fulfillment of international obligations.
Al-Sudani underscored Iraq’s commitment to collaborate with UNAMI, specifically in addressing critical issues such as desertification, climate change, and water scarcity. The leaders deliberated on global developments, including the repercussions of the conflict between Israel and Hamas on regional and global stability. Of significant concern was the ongoing humanitarian crisis, characterized as genocide by the Iraqi Prime Minister, perpetrated by the Israeli army against the Palestinian people.
Expressing gratitude, Al-Sudani acknowledged Guterres’ efforts in halting what he deemed an unjust attack on Gaza. The Iraqi leader praised the Secretary-General’s unwavering support for the Palestinian cause, emphasizing Iraq’s steadfast stance on the right of the Palestinian people to live in dignity on their ancestral land.
In response, Guterres affirmed the United Nations’ solidarity with the Palestinian people and pledged to continue efforts aimed at ending the conflict in Gaza and alleviating the plight of innocent civilians. The meeting between the Iraqi Prime Minister and the UN Secretary-General marks a significant development in Baghdad’s diplomatic approach, signaling a strategic reevaluation of its collaboration with UNAMI in the pursuit of regional stability and justice.