Doha: Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein affirmed that Iraq remains committed to its democratic choice and the building of its institutions, rejecting all forms of dictatorship from which it suffered for decades.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, during his meeting with US Special Envoy for Syria Thomas Barak on the sidelines of the Doha Forum, the Foreign Minister reviewed the stages Iraq went through to consolidate its democratic approach after 2003, and the complex challenges that accompanied these transformations.

He emphasized that Iraq remains committed to its democratic choice and the building of its institutions, rejecting all forms of dictatorship from which it suffered for decades. On another note, he pointed to the challenges facing Syria, the efforts being made on the political track, and the role of the US envoy in this matter.

The Foreign Minister also expressed the Iraqi government’s surprise at the recent statements made by the US envoy regarding the internal situation in Iraq. He explained that it was important to present a different perspective, one that reflects the reality of the political progress and relative stability achieved in Iraq. He emphasized that the choices of the Iraqi people are respected, and that democracy and the federal system are enshrined in the constitution and have become a firmly established path with no alternative, despite the challenges.

He affirmed the importance of joint cooperation between Iraq and the United States and strengthening the strategic partnership between the two countries, praising the role played by the United States within the international coalition to combat the ISIS terrorist organization.

He also stressed the necessity of representing all components of the Syrian people in the political process and initiating a comprehensive national dialogue, while affirming the Iraqi government’s readiness to provide support and advice and to share its experience in dealing with political and security crises.

For his part, Barak expressed his gratitude to the Secretary of State for the historical and political perspective he presented regarding Iraq and its history prior to 2003, emphasizing that the US administration views the Iraqi experience with respect and that his remarks pertained to the US experience in Iraq.

The US envoy also addressed the current situation in Syria, stressing the importance of dealing fairly with all Syrian groups and supporting efforts to find solutions to the situation, a matter ultimately up to the Syrian people.