UN Mission in Iraq: A New Dawn of Sovereignty and Cooperation

The United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres visited Baghdad, marking the end of the UN mission established in 2003. Concluding this mission signifies Iraq's self-reliance and shifts focus to development and economic growth. A new chapter of cooperation begins, honoring past sacrifices and ongoing challenges.

In a significant diplomatic milestone, United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres arrived in Baghdad to commemorate the cessation of the political mission established in 2003, following the US-led invasion that dethroned Saddam Hussein.

The UN Security Council, responding to Iraq's request, had voted to conclude the United Nations Assistance Mission in Iraq (UNAMI) by the end of 2025. Originally designed to aid post-conflict recovery, the mission played a crucial role in reconstructing governance and humanitarian outreach in Iraq.

Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani lauded the mission's achievements in a region marred by protracted dictatorship, conflict, and terror. He highlighted Iraq's progress toward self-sufficiency, announcing plans to name a Baghdad street 'United Nations Street' to honor the UN's commitment and acknowledge the sacrifice of 22 UN staff in a 2003 bombing.

(With inputs from agencies.)