NATO and Iraq Initiate High-Level Political Dialogue to Strengthen Cooperation

NATO and Iraq have commenced a high-level political dialogue to strengthen their long-term partnership. The discussions, led by Iraqi officials including National Security Advisor Qasim al-Araji, aim to enhance the capacity of Iraqi security forces and promote regional stability amid ongoing challenges. The initiative underscores NATO’s commitment to advising and supporting Iraqi institutions, ensuring a collaborative approach to security in the Middle East.

NATO and Iraq have initiated a high-level political dialogue, underlining their enduring partnership. This development follows a visit from a delegation of Iraqi officials, spearheaded by National Security Advisor Qasim al-Araji, to NATO Headquarters for discussions with senior leaders of the Alliance. The dialogue aims to strengthen cooperation between Iraq and NATO, focusing on enhancing the capacity of Iraqi security institutions amidst ongoing regional challenges. Tom Goffus, NATO Assistant Secretary General for Operations, emphasized the significance of their collaboration since 2018, highlighting NATO’s commitment to assisting Iraq with non-combat advisory and capacity-building efforts. This work aims to bolster Iraq’s security capabilities, combat terrorism, and promote effective governance within its military and security sectors. In response, National Security Advisor al-Araji noted the importance of NATO’s support, reinforcing the partnership as a collective effort aimed at fostering a secure and stable Iraq, rather than acting against any specific group. “Our partnership is not against any one; rather it is for the sake of a safe and stable Iraq,” he stated. Further, Javier Colomina, NATO Deputy Assistant Secretary General for Political Affairs, indicated that the ongoing dialogue builds on successful practical collaborations and addresses shared interests in securing a stable Middle East. Additionally, the appointment of a Special Representative for the southern neighbourhood is intended to enhance NATO’s involvement in the region, as outlined in a recent action plan from the Washington Summit aimed at increasing engagement across the Middle East, North Africa, and Sahel areas. This meeting also included exchanges of views on the evolving NATO-Iraq partnership and future engagement, centering on significant issues related to regional security. As both sides commit to ongoing dialogue, they aim to carve out paths for long-term collaboration to ensure security and stability.

In recent years, NATO has played a pivotal role in assisting Iraqi security forces by providing non-combat advisory support to enhance their operational capabilities. This stems from a mutual recognition of the ongoing challenges posed by terrorism and instability in the region, particularly following the rise of groups like Daesh. The dialogue initiated between NATO and Iraq represents an evolution of their relationship, focusing on sustainable solutions and regional security.

The launch of high-level political dialogue between NATO and Iraq signifies a critical step in reinforcing their collaborative efforts to enhance Iraq’s security landscape. This initiative aims to foster a long-term partnership built on mutual interests in achieving stability within the region while maintaining Iraq’s sovereignty. As NATO ramps up its engagement in the Middle East, the continued dialogue offers a framework for addressing shared security challenges effectively.

Original Source: jfcnaples.nato.int