Baghdad: National Security Advisor Qasim al-Aboudi emphasized the necessity of establishing a permanent Norwegian diplomatic mission in Baghdad during a meeting with Norwegian Charg© d’Affaires in Iraq, Alexander Lerville, who is based in Amman. The meeting, attended by Frida Nomme, Head of the Middle East Program at the Norwegian Center for Conflict Resolution, took place on Sunday at Al-Aboudi’s office.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, the discussions focused on strengthening bilateral relations and enhancing cooperation on mutual interests. Key topics included recent regional developments, the importance of de-escalation, and support for efforts to bolster international and regional security and stability.

The situation in the Sinjar district was also a major point of discussion, with emphasis on reconstruction and creating a safe environment for displaced persons to return. The Iraqi government is actively supporting initiatives to foster peaceful coexistence among Sinjar’s diverse communities, aiming to reintegrate returning families through comprehensive plans and programs.

Al-Aboudi highlighted the Iraqi government’s commitment to ending foreign presence in Iraq, in line with the security stability the country is achieving. He reiterated Iraq’s constitutional stance against harboring groups that pose threats to neighboring countries and the region. Al-Aboudi also underscored the importance of a permanent Norwegian diplomatic mission in Baghdad to foster balanced international partnerships.

In response, Alexander Lerville expressed Norway’s support for the Iraqi government’s program and its willingness to open an embassy in Iraq. Lerville affirmed Norway’s readiness to collaborate with Iraq in economic, environmental, and humanitarian sectors.