Iraqi Prime Minister Meets UN Secretary-General, Discusses Regional Security and Strengthened Cooperation

Iraqi Prime Minister Meets UN Secretary-General, Discusses Regional Security and Strengthened Cooperation Prime Minister Mohammed S. Al-Sudani met with United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres on Thursday evening in New York, marking the conclusion of his participation in the 79th session of the United Nations General Assembly. According to a statement from the Prime Minister’s Media Office, the meeting highlighted key areas of cooperation between Iraq and the United Nations, while addressing matters of mutual concern. Discussions also focused on developments in the Middle East, particularly the ongoing aggression against Lebanon and Palestine, and the growing threat this poses to both regional and global security. Prime Minister Al-Sudani expressed gratitude for the United Nations’ stance on the situation in Gaza and its condemnation of crimes against humanity affecting the Palestinian people and the attacks on Lebanon. He praised these positions as being in line with the foundational principles of the UN. Additionally, Al-Sudani thanked the UN for its continuous support in stabilizing Iraq, assisting in the fight against ISIS, and contributing to Iraq’s victory, which he credited to the unity of the Iraqi people and the help of international allies. The Prime Minister extended an invitation to Secretary-General Guterres to visit Iraq and participate in the Arab Summit scheduled to take place in Baghdad in May 2025. Secretary-General Guterres, in turn, commended the strong relationship between Iraq and the United Nations, describing it as ideal. He reaffirmed the UN’s commitment to supporting Iraq’s prosperity, progress, and sustainable development. Guterres also expressed his appreciation for the constructive dialogue that led to the conclusion of the UNAMI mission and the opening of new avenues for cooperation with specialized UN agencies. Key focus areas include helping Iraq address climate change, economic challenges, and advancing social and service development initiatives.