Baghdad: Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein discussed with German State Minister G©za Andreas von Geyr mechanisms for joint action to address the issue of ISIS prisoners. The German Minister affirmed his country’s readiness to provide technical support to Iraq in this regard.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated in a press release: ‘Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein received, at his office in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs building today, Tuesday, German State Minister G©za Andreas von Geyr and his accompanying delegation. During the meeting, the strength of bilateral relations between the two countries and ways to enhance joint cooperation, particularly in the field of combating terrorism, were emphasized.’

The statement added: ‘The issue of ISIS members and the government’s efforts to transfer them from Syria to Iraq were discussed, along with mechanisms for joint action to address this matter. The German minister affirmed his country’s readiness to provide technical support to Iraq in this regard.’

The Foreign Minister explained that addressing this issue requires concerted efforts, given the presence of many terrorists of European nationalities, noting the associated financial burdens.

For his part, the German Minister reviewed the memorandum of understanding scheduled to be signed with the Iraqi Ministry of Defense to regulate the work of German forces in Iraq, expressing his hope that the agreement would be signed soon and affirming the continued participation of German forces in the NATO mission.

The two sides also discussed ways to enhance bilateral and economic cooperation, in light of the recent visit of the German economic delegation to Iraq. It was agreed that the delegation would return after the formation of the new Iraqi government.

Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein reviewed the latest developments related to the formation of the government and the efforts of political blocs to reach common understandings.

The German side affirmed its readiness to support Iraq in facing climate challenges. The meeting also addressed regional issues, including the US-Iranian negotiations and their potential impact on security and the economy in the region and the world.

Developments in the political process in Syria were also discussed, with a focus on the situation in Damascus, relations with the Syrian Democratic Forces, and the agreement concluded between the two sides.