Iraqi territory not a platform for aggression on neighbors: President
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The Iraqi President stresses the importance of unity to ensure security and commitment to brotherly relations with neighboring countries and peoples.
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Iraqi President Abdul Latif Rashid talks to the media during a press conference at the Presidential palace in Nicosia, Cyprus, on December 11, 2023. (AP)
Iraq is committed to not allowing its territory to be used as a platform for aggression against any neighboring country, Iraqi President Abdul Latif Jamal Rashid reiterated, emphasizing the importance of strengthening unity in the country.
In a speech given during Sayyed Muhammad Baqir al-Hakim's memorial, Rashid stressed the great tragedy that is al-Hakim's loss, "but solace lies in continuing to work for the values he and other martyrs of freedom sacrificed for— justice, equality, and peace."
He added that these values represent the democratic Iraq that faced an abundance of challenges and difficulties, overcoming much to establish state principles, foster collective efforts in reconstruction, combat terrorism and extremism, and solidify social harmony.
"We have made significant progress, but significant work remains, especially given the regional circumstances threatening all countries in the area. We are keen to mitigate their effects through dialogue, understanding, and a commitment to counterterrorism, uniting efforts to ensure security, peace, development, and progress that restore the region's stability and fulfill the aspirations of its people for a free and dignified life," the Iraqi president stated.
Moreover, he highlighted that the endeavor pursued by the Iraqi government along with the nation’s diverse communities requires diligent efforts to strengthen Iraqi unity, prioritize national interests, meet and satisfy the people's demands for social justice, provide services across all sectors, safeguard public funds, and combat corruption in all its forms and sources.
Rashid also stressed that Iraq must not underestimate the risks, but shall remain confident in its people's will and unity in the face of challenges for a free, independent, and dignified nation that respects others, promotes dialogue, and protects the fair rights of all, especially its brothers in Palestine, whose right to a secure life and an independent state it supports.
In this context, the president expressed his commitment to supporting the Syrian people through their challenges, advocating for the reconstruction of their independent state based on just democracy that protects the rights of all components of Syrian society.
He also affirmed Iraq’s support for the Lebanese people amid their current difficulties, adding, "We continue to assist in alleviating the hardships faced by the Lebanese and emphasize the importance of uniting the people of Lebanon, ensuring their right to a secure and stable life, and rebuilding cities, villages, and institutions damaged by war."
"We bid farewell to a year that, on a regional level, was marked by the disasters of war. This demands substantial efforts from us in the region to overcome this phase, along with genuine international support to resolve this abnormal situation and assist our brothers in Palestine, Lebanon, and Syria," Rashid concluded.
Faleh al-Fayyad, UN envoy meet, discuss regional developments
The head of the Popular Mobilization Forces, Faleh al-Fayyad, met with the UN Secretary-General's Special Representative in Iraq, Mohamed al-Hassan, on Saturday. During the meeting, they discussed ways to enhance the United Nations' role in supporting Iraq and the security achievements that have been made.
The two sides also discussed regional developments, particularly the recent updates in Syria, as well as the repercussions of the Israeli aggression on Gaza.
Al-Fayyad emphasized the importance of the international community taking decisive positions to stop the massacres committed by the Israeli occupation and to prevent the escalation of tensions and the expansion of the war in the region.
Read more: Israeli occupation leading plots in Syria, Iraq must act: Badr Chief
