Baghdad: Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani received Christine Burgener, the Swiss candidate for the position of United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, on Monday.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, the Prime Minister’s media office released a statement highlighting the meeting. Al-Sudani expressed his wishes for Burgener’s success in her duties and praised the advancement of Iraqi-Swiss relations, marked by the opening of the Swiss Embassy in Baghdad.

The Prime Minister emphasized the need for collaboration with the Commission on social reintegration and infrastructure support in return areas. He underscored the importance of material, psychological, and social support for the displaced. Al-Sudani also stressed the significance of the return of displaced Iraqis from Al-Hol camp and called for all countries to take responsibility for their nationals in the camp. He noted that Iraq is nearing the closure of camps for displaced individuals.

Al-Sudani stated that Iraq hosts thousands of refugees from neighboring countries and highlighted the importance of working with the UNHCR to establish a pioneering model for addressing displacement and asylum issues in the region.

Christine Burgener expressed gratitude to the Prime Minister for his support of the Swiss mission in Baghdad. She commended Iraq’s measures in addressing refugee and displacement issues, describing them as exemplary for the region and the world. Burgener also emphasized the importance of utilizing Iraq’s expertise in relief work, managing displacement camps, and its efforts in combating drugs and treating addicts.