In an effort to enhance bilateral cooperation and address pressing regional concerns, Iraq’s Foreign Minister recently welcomed José Manuel Albares, the Foreign Minister of Spain, to the Iraqi capital. The high-level meeting served as a platform to discuss various facets of their countries’ relationship and delve into critical regional matters, particularly the war in Gaza.
During the meeting, the two foreign ministers explored avenues for strengthening the ties between Iraq and Spain across multiple dimensions, including politics, economics, and culture. The discussions underscored the commitment of both nations to fostering robust bilateral relations & the role of Spanish companies in rebuilding the infrastructure of the Iraqi economy.
Spain’s Foreign Minister, José Manuel Albares, emphasized the importance of these relations and Iraq’s pivotal role in promoting peace and stability in the Middle East.
Speaking of the meeting with Iraqi counterpart, the Spanish Foreign Minister said, “Good meeting with my Iraqi counterpart @Fuad_Hussein1. We have addressed our bilateral, political, economic, and cultural relations; and the security situation in the region. Iraq is a key partner of Spain for peace in the Middle East.”
It is pertinent to note that the visit to Iraq by José Manuel Albares followed his earlier stop in Lebanon as part of his Middle East tour.
Situation in Middle East
The Foreign Affairs Council held a discussion on the situation in the Middle East.
They agreed on the need to support UNRWA (the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East), and talked about post-war Gaza, joint efforts to revive the political process towards a two-state solution and work towards a Preparatory Peace Conference and a comprehensive regional peace plan.
