EU ambassador affirms Brussels' support for disarmament and economic reform, announces trade forum in Baghdad

EU Ambassador to Iraq, Clemens Smetner, said on Tuesday that the Union supports the Iraqi government's efforts to confine weapons to state control, combat corruption and work on economic reform.

He made the remarks in a speech at a celebration hosted by the EU mission marking partnership and friendship with Iraq, noting that Europe has always been a reliable partner for Iraq and stood by it in the toughest circumstances, especially during the war against the ISIS terrorist organization, and contributed to helping millions of displaced people return to their homes.

The ambassador added that the European Union is ready to partner with Baghdad to achieve inclusive economic growth, diversify sources of the economy, confront climate change and develop future technologies.

He said Baghdad will host on Wednesday the launch of the third edition of the Iraqi National Forum for Trade and Investment, organized by the European Union in cooperation with the Iraqi Ministry of Trade, and noted that the events will bring together dozens of European companies and hundreds of Iraqi firms with the aim of strengthening economic ties and exploring investment opportunities.

Smetner noted that the new government headed by Prime Minister Ali Faleh al-Zaidi faces many challenges, and affirmed the EU's readiness to be a partner in facing those challenges and to support efforts for economic reform and anti-corruption.

He concluded by praising Iraq's capabilities and its people to build a prosperous and peaceful future, calling for enhanced joint efforts to achieve that goal.

The celebration was held at the Al-Mansour Theatre in Baghdad, attended by the Foreign Minister as guest of honor, a number of government leaders, members of parliament, representatives of the diplomatic corps and the business community from Iraq and Europe.