The Iraqi Foreign Minister, Fuad Hussein, warmly welcomed Austria’s decision to reopen its embassy in Baghdad. In a joint press conference with his Austrian counterpart, Alexander Schallenberg, and as reported by Al-Sumaria News on Tuesday, Hussein elaborated on their comprehensive discussions surrounding ongoing diplomatic ties and political consultations between Iraq and Austria.
Further enriching the bilateral relationship, Hussein highlighted their exploration into the potential resumption of Austrian airlines’ operations to the Iraqi capital. Adding depth to the dialogue on security matters, the Foreign Minister provided clarity regarding the nature of Austrian military presence in Iraq. He asserted that their role has been limited to consultation and training. In line with this perspective, he stressed the Iraqi government’s stance on engaging with foreign forces present within its borders. Their collaborative approach primarily focuses on consultations and training to counter threats such as terrorism, criminal activities, and narcotics.
In a display of Iraq’s strengthened internal security capabilities, Hussein emphasized that the nation is well-equipped with its defense forces and does not require any foreign combat troops. Nonetheless, acknowledging the collaborative nature of modern security challenges, he revealed that the Austrian government has decided to dispatch 10 personnel to Iraq to offer their expertise in consultation and training.
Cementing their strengthened ties, the day also witnessed the Iraqi Foreign Minister and his Austrian counterpart, in Baghdad, signing a security agreement pertaining to Iraq’s internal security measures.
