Iraqi Foreign Ministry confirms continued international cooperation despite mission end

The Iraqi Foreign Ministry affirmed on Wednesday that the official conclusion of the international coalition's mission does not signify the end of cooperation with friendly nations, emphasizing the country's commitment to continuing its efforts in combating terrorism. A statement issued by the ministry on the occasion of the official end of the mission of the international coalition to fight the terrorist ISIS in Iraq stated that this milestone represents Iraq's transition to a new phase in which it assumes full responsibility for its security and stability, within the framework of consolidating national sovereignty and enhancing the independence of its security decision-making, in alignment with its supreme priorities and interests, and embodying the ability of its constitutional institutions and specialized security apparatuses to undertake their national responsibilities. The ministry praised the unity of the Iraqi people and the solidarity of its institutions, which formed a fundamental pillar in overcoming one of the most difficult phases in its modern history and achieving victory over ISIS terrorist gangs. The ministry added, recalling with utmost reverence and pride the sacrifices of Iraq's righteous martyrs and the heroism of the members of our armed forces in all their branches and formations, along with the Popular Mobilization Forces and the Peshmerga, while appreciating the major role played by the armed forces, security, and intelligence apparatuses in protecting the country, safeguarding citizens' security, and preserving stability. The ministry expressed its deep thanks and appreciation to the United States, as the leader of the international coalition, and to the friendly participating countries, in appreciation of their role in supporting Iraq during its war against ISIS, and their contributions and sacrifices, including those made by coalition personnel who fell during military operations against the terrorist organization. It also valued the joint cooperation and coordination between the coalition forces and the Iraqi armed forces, and what they contributed to achieving victory over the terrorist organization. The ministry added that the official end of the coalition's mission in Iraq does not mean the end of cooperation with friendly countries, as security cooperation will remain an ongoing track based on mutual interests and mutual respect for national sovereignty, including training, exchange of expertise and information, and capacity building, to enhance security and stability and support international efforts to combat terrorism and extremism. The ministry renewed its emphasis on the Republic of Iraq's commitment to continuing its efforts in combating terrorism, enhancing its national security, and solidifying its relations with friendly countries and international partners on the basis of mutual respect and common interests, serving regional and international security and stability.