On Sunday 19 October, the EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Kaja Kallas, announced that the European Union would be sending an election observation mission to Iraq for the parliamentary elections on 11 November.
“The election observation will be on the ground on 11 November” at the request of the Iraqi authorities, she announced ahead of the 4th EU-Iraq Cooperation Council in Luxembourg. “These elections represent a significant moment for Iraq. It is vital that they are peaceful, inclusive, and transparent”, she added.
The Cooperation Council provided an opportunity to discuss migration, development cooperation, trade and energy. Regional issues and security were also discussed. “The EU’s assistance mission has been instrumental in supporting the Iraqi authorities in strengthening the rule of law, civilian administration and security sector reform. This is helping also to curb the resurgence of Daesh”, explained the High Representative.
In her view, discussions between the EU and Iraq are shifting from security to the strengthening of public services and economic progress. According to the statement issued at the end of the Council, Iraq reaffirmed its determination to refocus its attention on economic recovery and investments, which the EU continues to support. The High Representative said it was crucial that the government’s reform programme “delivers tangible results for the Iraqi people and addresses their legitimate demands for better governance and opportunities”.
Democracy and human rights were also discussed. “The protection of human rights (...) are fundamental to our relationship. Iraq’s election to the United Nations Human Rights Council is not only a symbol of progress, but also an opportunity to build on”, said Ms Kallas.
According to a joint declaration, the EU welcomed Iraq’s constructive diplomatic role in promoting dialogue and de-escalation in the Middle East and reiterated its firm support for Iraq’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. (Original version in French by Camille-Cerise Gessant)