ERBIL — Iraqi President Latif Rashid on Monday received a delegation from the European Parliament, emphasizing the importance of strengthening relations between his country and the EU.
The delegation included three members of the European Parliament: Sara Skyttedal, Domènec Ruiz Devesa, and Marco Campomenosi. During the meeting, the president and the delegation reviewed the existing relations between Iraq and the European Union.
Rashid stressed the need to strengthen the relationship, emphasizing "the importance of broad cooperation and coordination between Iraq and the European Union." He also asked the delegation to convey the true picture of Iraq to the international community and to highlight the state of security and stability experienced by Iraqi cities.
The Iraqi leader pointed out that the federal government has developed a program that meets the aspirations of its citizens, and he expressed hope that the implementation of service, urban, and investment projects would begin soon once the budget is approved.
The delegation members confirmed their support for consolidating the security and stability of Iraq and improving the well-being of its citizens. They expressed their aspiration to enhance prospects for cooperation and joint coordination between Iraq and the European Union in a way that develops joint relations.
Meanwhile, Prime Minister Mohammed Shia' al-Sudani received a delegation from the European Parliament on Monday. During the meeting, they discussed the various aspects of cooperation between Iraq and Europe and means of developing it. They also discussed mechanisms to enhance Iraq's capabilities in facing economic challenges and combating the effects of climate change.
The Prime Minister praised the European Union's stances towards Iraq during different stages and discussed his country's approach to adopting a balanced international relations policy. He highlighted the importance of international efforts in supporting Iraq in implementing its government program, recovering stolen tax funds, and extraditing wanted persons for corruption crimes.
The European Parliament delegation confirmed their countries' support and assistance for the Iraqi government's reform efforts. They expressed their willingness to establish a partnership with Iraq to advance sustainable development and serve shared interests.