Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani shakes hands with UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres during a joint press conference in Baghdad.
Guterres visits Baghdad as Iraq marks final phase of UNAMI mission
BAGHDAD — United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres arrived in Baghdad on Saturday to mark the official conclusion of the United Nations Assistance Mission for Iraq, as Iraqi leaders stressed that the end of the mission will not mean an end to cooperation with the world body.
Guterres was received at Baghdad International Airport by Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein. In a statement, Hussein said the conclusion of UNAMI’s mandate “reflects the progress and stability that has been achieved” and “embodies Iraq’s ability to manage its national affairs and strengthen its constitutional institutions.” He also expressed the government’s appreciation for the UN’s support in past years, particularly in backing the political process and providing advisory assistance.
Speaking at a joint press conference with Guterres, Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani said, “Iraq takes pride in the positions of the UN secretary-general toward Iraq,” adding that “the end of the UNAMI mission does not mean the end of the partnership with the United Nations.” He said the government “succeeded in consolidating the foundations of democracy through holding elections,” noting that “Iraq has moved from crisis management to relying on its own efforts.”
Al-Sudani said, “We have achieved security and stability and many national achievements despite challenges, and we look forward to establishing relations with the United Nations based on partnership.” He added that “Iraq emerged victorious over terrorism through the sacrifices of its sons,” describing the relationship with UNAMI as “pivotal.” On elections, he said the most recent parliamentary vote “were the most organized,” adding, “We adopted a balanced policy during a critical period for the region and the world.”
The prime minister also welcomed the UN chief’s decision to back former Iraqi president Barham Salih as the next head of the U.N. refugee agency. “We appreciate the selection of former President Barham Salih as the UN high commissioner for refugees,” al-Sudani said, and announced “the naming of one of Baghdad’s streets after the United Nations.”
Guterres, for his part, said he valued cooperation with Iraq and confirmed the UN’s commitment to continued support, adding that this would continue “through new cooperation frameworks appropriate to the next phase.”
UNAMI was established in 2003 under UN Security Council Resolution 1500 at Iraq’s request, with a mandate to support inclusive political dialogue, reconciliation, electoral processes and human rights protections. In May 2024, al-Sudani formally asked Guterres to conclude the mission by December 2025, citing what he described as Iraq’s substantial progress toward stability.
The UN Security Council adopted Resolution 2732 on May 31, 2024, extending UNAMI’s mandate for a final 19-month period. Under the resolution, the mission is set to cease its operations on Dec. 31, 2025, except for any remaining liquidation activities.