According to Al-Sudani, Iraq has moved from a phase of wars to one of stability and the conclusion of the work of foreign military forces is part of the government’s program.
In an interview with the Bloomberg news outlet, al-Sudani said that the date will be revealed during his participation in the international conference against Daesh.
For the prime minister, the justifications for the presence of the international mission are over, and “there is no need for a coalition of 86 countries.” At this point, he reiterated the willingness to activate the strategic framework agreement with the United States and build a relationship based on the principles outlined in the treaty.
Al-Sudani recalled his August 2023 visit to Washington and the formation of a bilateral committee between military commanders to start dialogue and organize the withdrawal of the International Coalition.
Regarding the understanding with the United States and Iran, the prime minister stressed the attachment to shared interests and mutual respect. He also noted that the Islamic Republic supported the political process and contributed to the defeat of Daesh, and further explained that “We do not want the actions of other countries to affect the situation in Iraq and the region; this is our strategy in terms of bilateral and regional ties.”
Al-Sudani acknowledged the sacrifices and attitude of the Iraqi people, as well as the support of the international community and friends to defeat the threat of Daesh, and he made it clear that “the end of the International Coalition’s mission does not mean the conclusion of its relationship,” and reported on discussions with member countries to build sustainable security, economic and cultural ties.
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