The Austrian Cabinet, led by Chancellor Karl Nehammer, has decided to increase its participation in NATO’s training and advisory mission in Iraq. This decision aims to support the efforts against terrorism and enhance security and stability in the region.
Today, the Cabinet decided to expand the involvement of the Austrian Armed Forces in Iraq, in response to requests made by Foreign Minister Alexander Schallenberg and Defense Minister Claudia Tanner.
A statement from the Austrian Ministry of Foreign Affairs emphasized that Iraq is a key factor for stability in the region, and thus its security directly impacts Europe and Austria. By participating in NATO’s training mission, we are supporting our Iraqi partners in the fight against terrorism and, consequently, addressing the root causes of illegal migration and displacement from the area.
According to the statement, the Austrian Foreign Minister plans to visit Iraq this year to officially inaugurate the Austrian embassy in Baghdad. It also highlighted that the Austrian Armed Forces have been a reliable partner within the framework of the “Partnership for Peace” initiative, established by NATO in 1994 to ensure further stability and security in the Euro-Atlantic region.
The statement further explained that the NATO Training Mission in Iraq is a non-executive military training and advisory mission, and Austria’s participation is based on the provisions of United Nations Security Council Resolution 2249, issued on November 20, 2015. The resolution called on all UN member states to prevent and suppress terrorist acts in Iraq.
In conclusion, Austria’s decision to increase its involvement in NATO’s mission in Iraq underscores its commitment to supporting stability, security, and the fight against terrorism in the region. This step demonstrates Austria’s active role in international efforts to promote peace and cooperation.
