EU calls for a more inclusive, democratic Iraq

The European Union announced yesterday its new strategy for Iraq, saying it will continue to support the country’s unity and preserve its sovereignty and territorial integrity.

The EU Foreign Affairs Council endorsed the new strategy during the EU foreign ministers meeting in Brussels.

“The EU will continue to support the unity, sovereignty and territorial integrity of Iraq as well as its religious and ethnic diversity,” the strategy said.

The bloc called on the Kurdistan Regional Government and the Iraqi government to engage in constructive dialogue in order to achieve stability. The European Union has reiterated its support for the United Nations’ role in Iraq.

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It pointed out that it will contribute to “strengthening the political and judicial systems in Iraq” stressing the importance of further efforts to stabilise areas liberated from Daesh.

“Daesh has been defeated militarily, but remains a threat in Iraq” it said.

The strategy will include political and economic reforms in areas liberated from Daesh and the return of displaced persons to their areas without discrimination.

The European Union described the general elections scheduled for May as “an opportunity to build a more inclusive and democratic state which works in the interests of all Iraqis”.