NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte’s visit to Iraq emphasized strong cooperation and progress in security and governance through NATO Mission Iraq. Engaging with Iraqi leaders, he highlighted the mission’s contributions since 2018 towards enhancing Iraqi security capabilities and promoting stability. The partnership aims to ensure lasting peace in Iraq while acknowledging its sovereignty.
On February 4-5, 2025, NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, accompanied by Supreme Allied Commander Europe, U.S. Army General Christopher G. Cavoli, visited Iraq. Their discussions involved key Iraqi officials, including President Dr. Abdul Latif Rashid and Prime Minister Mohammed Shia’ Al-Sudani. The dialogue focused on NATO Mission Iraq’s role, the ongoing partnership between NATO and Iraq, and the regional security landscape.
Secretary General Rutte commended the NATO Mission Iraq (NMI) for enhancing the capabilities of Iraqi security forces since its inception in 2018. He stated, “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.” This cooperation has yielded significant advancements in areas such as security education, logistics, cyber defense, and good governance.
Launched in July 2018 at a NATO Summit and operational in Baghdad by October 2018, NMI is a non-combat mission focused on advisory and capacity-building roles. Its mission is to assist Iraq in developing sustainable and effective security institutions, allowing Iraq to independently stabilize against threats like terrorism and the resurgence of ISIS/Daesh. NMI provides guidance to various Iraqi defense and security agencies, as well as military educational institutions.
The Iraqi government has identified key objectives for collaboration with NMI, primarily in security education, logistics, cyber defense, and governance. This strategic relationship emphasizes respect for Iraq’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, while working towards enduring security and stability for all Iraqi citizens.
The visit of NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte to Iraq highlights the strengthening partnership between NATO and Iraq, with a focus on enhancing the capabilities of Iraqi security forces. Since its establishment, NATO Mission Iraq has made significant strides in ensuring long-term stability and effective governance. The continued cooperation is vital for Iraq’s security and the prevention of terrorism in the region.
Original Source: www.nato.int
