Italian Foreign Minister Affirms His Country’s Strategic Partnership with Iraq

Italian Foreign Minister H.E. Antonio Tajani confirmed that in-depth discussions on the latest developments in Gaza, Syria, Lebanon, and Iran were held during his meeting with Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Iraq, H.E. Mr. Fuad Hussein, on Friday, 19 December 2025.

Minister Tajani noted that Iraq is considered a strategic partner for Italy in the region, explaining that approximately 500 Italian troops are deployed in Iraq to take part in bilateral and multilateral training activities, within the framework of the International Coalition to Defeat ISIS and the NATO Mission in Iraq.

He reaffirmed Italy’s commitment supporting international efforts aimed at ending the crisis in Gaza, backing a comprehensive political process in Syria, and supporting Lebanon’s stability in light of developments related to the work of United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL). He also stressed the importance of resuming dialogue on the Iranian nuclear file between Iran and the United States.

Regarding Iraqi affairs and following the parliamentary elections held in November, Minister Tajani expressed Italy’s desire to cooperate with the new Iraqi government as soon as it assumes its duties. He also welcomed the imminent conclusion of the mandate of the United Nations Assistance Mission for Iraq (UNAMI), considering it a reflection of the progress achieved toward strengthening stability and security in the country. In this context, he confirmed that the partial revision of travel advisories for visitors wishing to travel to Iraq came as a direct result of the positive security developments.

In the economic field, Minister Tajani pointed to the active presence of Italian companies in Iraq, particularly in the energy, infrastructure, and healthcare sectors, reaffirming the importance of enhancing economic cooperation across various strategic sectors and exploring the opportunities offered by major projects, foremost among them the Iraqi Development Road Project and the India–Middle East–Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC).