Iraqi Foreign Minister Mohammad Al Hakim extolled Kuwait’s role in backing Iraq and helping it rebuild its institutions. This came in Al Hakim’s speech during the fourth edition of Mediterranean Dialogues (Rome MED 2018) late Thursday.
Al-Hakim also praised Kuwait for its strong support to help Iraq face impacts of the long conflict, and for mobilizing investments during the International Conference for Reconstruction of Iraq hosted by Kuwait last February.
He stressed the necessity of having a strong army to maintain stability and safety, and defeat the remaining cells of the so-called Islamic State.
The minister noted that Iraq defeated the IS militants militarily, however, there are still sleeper cells of about 2000 members bordering Syria. He pointed out that the Iraqi troops are continuing combating terrorism and the remaining militants of the IS, in collaboration with some countries like Italy and Jordan. Al Hakim revealed that Iraq has “positive relations” with Turkey and Iran.
He emphasized that he found, during his visit, identical views with Kuwait, Saudi Arabia and the rest of the Gulf states. The MED 2018 meeting brings together more than 40 dignitaries, including state heads, premiers, ministers as well as Iraq’s President Barham Salih as a guest of honor.
Arab Times
25/11/2018
