Iraq 'more secure, stable, and open' than 20 years ago: UN envoy

By Merve Aydogan

HAMILTON, Canada (AA) - The UN envoy for Iraq on Friday described the country as "more secure, stable and open" while expressing confidence for it to overcome challenges.

"Today's Iraq is not the same as the Iraq of 20 years ago, or even five years ago," Mohamed Al Hassan, the UN special representative and head of the UN Assistance Mission for Iraq (UNAMI), said at a UN Security Council session.

"Despite the many obstacles facing, I am fully confident that this great country, deeply rooted in history and the cradle of human civilization, is capable of overcoming crises and facing challenges towards forging a more secure, bright and hopeful future," he said.

He hailed the Iraqi government’s efforts under Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani, and said: "Iraq's government has shown strong resolve to keep Iraq out of widening regional conflict, standing firm as a strong voice for peace and stability."

"In a region that is ‘on fire’, Iraq’s government has shown strong resolve to keep the country out of the widening regional conflict, while standing firm as a strong voice for regional peace and stability," Al Hassan said.

He further noted that the Iraqi government strives "to position Iraq as a vital corridor for transportation, energy, and trade, leveraging regional partnerships."

"Such initiatives underscore Iraq’s efforts to foster regional integration and prosperity," he added.

Despite the developments, Al Hassan also said that "corruption continues to prevail in Iraq’s socio-economic life."

"The country does require comprehensive changes and reform that will bolster accountability, promote competency, improve transparency and fortify governance systems," he said, while voicing confidence that Iraqi authorities would take steps in this direction.

He also noted the importance of "state institutions promoting and supporting human rights."

On relations with Kuwait, Al Hassan said the UN has "encouraged the continuation of negotiations and communication between the two brotherly neighbors."

"We expressed the UN's readiness to offer its services should both sides choose to avail themselves," he said.

UNAMI is a political mission established by the 2003 UN Security Council Resolution 1500 at the request of the government of Iraq. It has been on the ground ever since, with its role greatly expanded in 2007 with the passage of Resolution 1770.

UNAMI is mandated to advise and assist the government and people of Iraq on a number of fronts. This includes advancing inclusive, political dialogue and national reconciliation, assisting in the electoral process and in the planning for a national census, facilitating regional dialogue between Iraq and its neighbors, and promoting the protection of human rights and judicial and legal reform.