NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte visited Iraq, highlighting a strong alliance through NATO Mission Iraq (NMI). Established in 2018, NMI focuses on enhancing Iraqi security forces’ capabilities amidst regional security challenges. The mission fosters cooperation in critical areas like cyber defense and governance, supporting Iraq’s efforts toward stability and independence in combating terrorism.
NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte visited Iraq from February 4-5, 2025, with U.S. Army General Christopher G. Cavoli, Supreme Allied Commander Europe. During this visit, he engaged with high-ranking Iraqi officials, including President Dr. Abdul Latif Rashid and Prime Minister Mohammed Shia’ Al-Sudani, discussing NATO’s role in Iraq, the ongoing partnership, and regional security issues. He also met with Lieutenant General Lucas Schreurs, the NMI Commander, and NATO personnel in Baghdad.
Rutte emphasized the positive impact of NATO Mission Iraq (NMI) since its inception in 2018, highlighting how their advising and capacity-building efforts have strengthened Iraqi security forces and institutions. He commended the partnership’s achievements in areas such as security education, cyber defense, and good governance, stating, “Together we have achieved a lot through our NATO-Iraq partnership.”
Established after an official request from Iraq, NATO Mission Iraq began operations in October 2018. This non-combat mission focuses on advising Iraqi authorities in various sectors, including the Ministry of Defense and national security offices, with the goal of enhancing their ability to maintain internal stability and combat terrorism. The mission aims to ensure that Iraqis can independently stabilize their country and prevent the resurgence of ISIS.
Iraqi authorities have set several key objectives in collaborating with NMI, emphasizing priorities such as logistics, cybersecurity, and enhancing governance standards. The cooperative approach underscores NATO’s respect for Iraq’s sovereignty and commitment to supporting its security and stability efforts, with the evolving scope of NATO’s support tailored to Iraq’s needs.
The article discusses NATO’s relationship with Iraq, focusing on the cooperation through the NATO Mission Iraq (NMI), which was initiated in 2018 at the request of the Iraqi government. It highlights the strategic partnership between NATO and Iraq, aiming at strengthening Iraq’s security capabilities and fostering transparency and inclusivity in its security institutions. The significance of this mission lies in its advisory role, especially concerning the ongoing threats of terrorism and the need for effective governance in Iraq.
NATO has built a robust partnership with Iraq, significantly through the NATO Mission Iraq (NMI), which has enhanced the effectiveness and sustainability of Iraqi security forces. Underlining successful cooperation in various domains, the Secretary General’s recent visit reaffirms NATO’s commitment to supporting Iraq’s sovereignty while addressing key security challenges. The mission continues to evolve, reflecting both the ongoing needs of Iraq and NATO’s strategic objectives in the region.
Original Source: www.nato.int
