(MENAFN- Kuwait News Agency (KUNA)) BRUSSELS, Jan 8 (KUNA) -- EU High Representative Federica Mogherini and the European Commission adopted Monday a joint report on proposals for a new EU strategy for Iraq.
The proposal outlines both ongoing and longer term EU support to the country, fully taking into account the Iraqi government's priorities, said the European Commission in a press release.
"Iraq is at a crossroads in its history following the territorial defeat of Da'esh at great sacrifice. It is now crucial to act quickly and rebuild the country with the participation of all the components of Iraqi society, to promote and protect fundamental rights and the rule of law," said Mogherini.
"This needs international support and we are ready to contribute, to keep supporting the Iraqi people and government in these challenges, for the sake of the people of the country and the region," she noted.
On his part, EU Commissioner for Humanitarian Aid and Crisis Management Christos Stylianides, who has visited Iraq several times to assess EU aid projects on the ground said: "The EU has been at the forefront in providing emergency assistance to the Iraqi people since the beginning of this crisis. Humanitarian needs remain high and many people remain displaced by conflict." EU Commissioner for International Cooperation and Development Neven Mimica, added that "as Iraq takes steps towards a more stable future, the EU is committed to being a key partner in reconstruction, stabilisation and longer term sustainable development." The strategy focuses on delivering continued EU humanitarian aid to the Iraqi people and facilitating the stabilisation of areas liberated from IS, with three million displaced Iraqis still unable to return home.
It also seeks to address the longer term reform, reconstruction and reconciliation efforts that Iraq needs to pursue in order to consolidate peace and build a united, democratic country in which all citizens can fully enjoy their rights in greater prosperity.
The strategy also supports Iraq's good relations with all its neighbours. (end) nk.mt
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