Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein meets US officials in Baghdad

BAGHDAD — Iraq’s Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein held talks on Tuesday with senior U.S. officials, marking the anniversary of the defeat of ISIS and emphasizing continued cooperation to counter terrorist threats, according to a statement from the Foreign Ministry.

Statement from Iraq’s Foreign Ministry:

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mr. Fuad Hussein, met on Tuesday, December 10, 2024, with Mr. John Bass, U.S. Under Secretary of State for Management and Acting Under Secretary for Political Affairs, Ms. Barbara Leaf, Assistant Secretary of State for Near Eastern Affairs, and Mr. Michael Siders, Political Advisor.

At the beginning of the meeting, the Minister welcomed the visiting delegation, noting that the visit coincides with an important day carrying significant meaning for both Iraqis and Americans: the day of achieving victory over ISIS. Both sides emphasized that this victory was achieved through the sacrifices of Iraqis and Americans, stressing the need for continued coordination and cooperation to combat terrorist organizations that threaten the security of Iraq and its people.

The meeting also included discussions on the situation and tensions in the region, focusing on Syria and reviewing all possible scenarios for its future.

The Minister highlighted Iraq’s interest in the security and stability of Syria, reaffirming Iraq’s support for the choices of the Syrian people and its efforts toward building a stable and prosperous Syria that ensures the participation of all its components in managing the country’s affairs. He also emphasized Iraq’s commitment to consulting with its friends in Washington regarding the current phase and Syria’s future, aiming to establish a positive relationship between the Iraqi and Syrian peoples.

Both sides agreed on the importance of continuing consultations and exchanging views to propose effective initiatives that serve mutual interests and enhance stability in the region.