The US Ambassador to Iraq, Elena Romanowski, confirmed today, Thursday, that the security relationship with Iraq has been transformed under the Strategic Framework Agreement to focus on supporting capacity-building of its forces and providing advice.
During a televised interview on the official channel, Romanowski said, “The first five weeks of my work in Baghdad were fast, and the country’s leaders welcomed us, and we discussed developing bilateral relations in various fields, and the economic aspect was present.”
She added, “My main task is to work to support the common goals included in the Strategic Framework Agreement, and some of its clauses have been activated, including transforming our mission in Iraq into a non-combatant one.”
She continued, “Our security relationship with Iraq focuses on supporting building the capabilities of its forces and providing advice to ensure the permanent defeat of the terrorist ISIS gangs, and we will continue on this aspect, as well as activating cooperation in aspects of education and cultural exchange among universities and research centers.”
The US Ambassador indicated that “the challenge of ISIS still exists, as these gangs still form pockets inside Iraq and are trying to recruit the second generation by training more elements in Syria, where they are there. We must cooperate with the Iraqi side and remain vigilant and cautious.”
On the economic issue, Romanowsky said, “The United States supports Iraq’s efforts to contribute to international trade and to be an active player in the Middle East, and supports the development and development of the private sector and supports emerging and small projects.”
She added, “The United States supports Iraq’s economic integration with the countries of the region through the upcoming summit that will be held in Saudi Arabia and will include the countries of the Gulf Cooperation Council, in addition to Iraq, Jordan and Egypt, and in the presence of US President Joe Biden.”
She indicated that “the summit will discuss several files, including security, economic, cultural and educational ties, and it will confirm Washington’s commitment to supporting those countries as well in dealing with the issues of the food crisis and climate change.”
Source: National Iraqi News Agency