Brussels, 11/05/2012 (Agence Europe) - On Friday 11 May, EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Catherine Ashton and Iraqi Foreign Minister Hoshyar Zabari signed the first framework agreement between the EU and Iraq. The partnership and cooperation agreement establishes a complete platform for strengthening links and cooperation in many fields, such as political issues with counter-terrorism and the promotion of human rights, trade and investment in key areas such as energy and services, and also questions relating to technology, education, health and culture.
“Economics meets politics: increased trade and investment will be crucial to back the work on the political front to support Iraq's transformation into a stable and prosperous democratic nation”, Ashton said. The agreement, which will make it possible to improve and clarify the trade agreements between Iraq and the EU, also provides for regular political dialogue to take place on bilateral, regional and global issues each time it is in the common interest of the EU and Iraq to work together.
Catherine Ashton takes the view that the agreement “is good for Iraq, good for the EU, and good for our long term relationship (…) sealing our common wish to work together on a whole range of issues where we both have much to gain”. She goes on to add that this “historic” agreement is a “symbol of the EU's wish to be a positive partner for Iraq in its democratic efforts. It brings together the EU and its member states as a fitting testament to the EU's determination to build a long-term partnership, not just today or tomorrow, but for many years to come”. The Iraqi minister, for his part, welcomed “Iraq's reintegration into the international community” with the signing of the agreement. He pointed out that the most important thing is to implement action covered by the agreement. (CG/transl.jl)