During a recent visit to Iraq, NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte praised the strong partnership between NATO and Iraq, highlighting achievements since the establishment of NATO Mission Iraq in 2018. The focus remains on building effective security forces through advisory and capacity-building roles, addressing key areas such as security education, logistics, and good governance.
NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte visited Iraq on February 4-5, 2025, accompanied by U.S. Army General Christopher G. Cavoli, Supreme Allied Commander Europe. Rutte engaged with key Iraqi officials, including President Dr. Abdul Latif Rashid and Prime Minister Mohammed Shia’ Al-Sudani, discussing the NATO Mission Iraq (NMI), the partnership between NATO and Iraq, and the regional security framework. He also met the NMI Commander, Lieutenant General Lucas Schreurs, and NATO staff in Baghdad.
Rutte highlighted the success of the NATO Mission Iraq, which commenced in 2018. He commended the cooperation in enhancing the effectiveness and sustainability of Iraqi security forces through various initiatives, including security education and cybersecurity. “Since 2018, through its advising and capacity-building efforts, NATO Mission Iraq has contributed to make Iraqi security forces, institutions and structures more effective, inclusive and sustainable for the long term,” he remarked.
The NATO Mission Iraq was established in response to a request from the Iraqi government during the NATO Summit in July 2018. It commenced operations in October 2018, under the command of Lieutenant General Lucas Schreurs. This mission focuses on providing non-combat advisory assistance aimed at strengthening Iraq’s security institutions and forces against threats such as terrorism and the resurgence of ISIS/Daesh.
NATO supports Iraqi officials in key defense and security areas, including the Ministry of Defense and National Security Advisor’s Office, along with advising military education institutions in Baghdad. The cooperation focuses on vital objectives identified by Iraqi authorities encompassing logistics, cybersecurity, and governance to foster stability and security in the region.
The NATO Mission Iraq (NMI) initiative began in 2018 to bolster the Iraqi security sector following a request from the Iraqi government. The mission aims to provide non-combat advisory support, enhancing the capacities of Iraqi forces to independently manage national security. This cooperation reflects broader efforts by NATO to ensure long-term stability in Iraq and the region, contributing to global anti-terrorism goals and addressing the aftermath of conflicts involving groups like ISIS/Daesh.
NATO’s ongoing partnership with Iraq, through the Mission Iraq program, demonstrates a commitment to enhancing Iraq’s security capabilities. Secretary General Rutte’s visit underscores the success achieved since the mission’s inception in 2018. The emphasis on capacity building, education, and governance in security institutions marks a strategic approach to promoting stability and a sustainable future for Iraq.
Original Source: www.miragenews.com
