Baghdad, Iraq – As part of efforts to strengthen Iraq’s balanced foreign policy, Iraqi National Security Advisor Qasim al-Araji received the European Union Ambassador to Iraq, Clemens Zimetner, on Monday.
The meeting, held in Baghdad, included a comprehensive review of cooperation between Iraq and the EU member states.
In addition, the most pressing security and political issues in the region and the world were discussed.
Commitment to the Iraqi-Iranian security agreement
During the talks, al-Araji emphasized Iraq’s firm and binding stance towards its neighbors, particularly regarding the security agreement signed between the Republic of Iraq and the Islamic Republic of Iran.
He affirmed that the federal government has made significant progress in implementing the provisions related to the Iranian opposition groups residing in Iraq.
The National Security Advisor explained that this matter is being managed in close and high-level coordination with the Kurdistan Regional Government.
This is done to ensure the prevention of any armed or hostile activity by these groups.
He noted that this approach is a clear application of the Iraqi Constitution,
which prohibits the use of Iraqi territory as a launching pad for attacks on the sovereignty and security of other countries.
Al-Araji also stressed Baghdad’s serious commitment to resolving border disputes
and adopting the principle of good neighborliness as a strategic choice.
The repercussions of the regional conflict and de-escalation efforts
Amidst the ongoing military tensions, Al-Araji expressed Iraq’s deep concern over the deteriorating security situation in the region.
He noted that the prevailing anxiety directly impacts regional and international peace.
He affirmed Iraq’s commitment to protecting all diplomatic missions and embassies operating within its borders.
Furthermore, Iraq provides a safe environment for representatives of the international community.
He added that Iraqi diplomacy is currently engaged with “friendly and brotherly” nations to limit the spread of the conflict.
He also stressed the necessity of “raising the voice of peace and returning to the negotiating table.”
Al-Araji considered the European Union countries strategic partners in upholding these values,
given their commitment to dialogue and their rejection of military escalation.
He further indicated that stability in the Middle East is the cornerstone of any sustainable economic development.
The file of foreign prisoners and calls for their release
On another note, al-Araji reiterated Iraq’s explicit call for the international community to take urgent action regarding the foreign prisoners recently transferred to Iraq.
He urged the relevant countries to begin the process of repatriating their citizens.
He emphasized that resolving this issue requires genuine international cooperation to alleviate the associated security and legal burdens.
European Union position
For his part, the European Ambassador, Clemens Zimmtner, affirmed that the European Union is working diligently
with its international partners to halt military operations and prevent the region from sliding into a wider conflict.
Zimmtner called on all parties to the conflict to strictly adhere to international law
and urged them to resolve disputes through diplomatic channels.
Finally, he commended Iraq’s role as a pivotal stabilizing force in the region.
