Baghdad: The Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a clarification regarding the list of new ambassadors, stating: “The circulated list is inaccurate and incorrect.”

According to National Iraqi News Agency, the Ministry highlighted that media and social media platforms have been circulating lists containing names of candidates for ambassadorial positions. The ministry emphasized that the information shared was influenced by political competition and personal interests, with some individuals attempting to disrupt the process by disseminating fabricated CVs and false information.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed that the lists circulating do not accurately reflect the candidates’ national, professional, and academic backgrounds. It clarified that the list comprises 50% of the ministry’s diplomats, including those with the rank of Minister Plenipotentiary or Advisor, alongside a group of national, academic, and social experts. This stands in contrast to the 2009 list, which included a larger proportion o
f ambassadors from outside the ministry.

The ministry pointed out that the leaked information does not align with the constitutional, legal, and administrative mechanisms established by the committee responsible for preparing nominations. These mechanisms are intended to ensure that candidates are qualified to represent Iraq’s interests and fill the significant gap in ambassadorial positions, which has reached over 90% in terms of vacancies.

Currently, there are 27 ambassadors in service, 11 of whom are nearing retirement age, with five more expected to retire by 2026. This situation affects the effectiveness of Iraqi diplomacy. There are also vacancies in undersecretary positions and departments within the ministry that require ambassadorial rank, as well as numerous diplomatic missions abroad.

The Ministry reassured the Iraqi populace and political entities of its commitment to a transparent selection process. It emphasized the importance of ensuring fairness and reflecting Iraq’s societal diversity to a
chieve true partnership. The selection process considers candidates’ integrity, competence, and patriotism, with the final list including a variety of backgrounds: 23% from families of martyrs, prisoners, and political dismissals, 64% from government employees, 19% from politics and civil society, and 17% from academia. Additionally, 62% of candidates hold advanced degrees.

The Ministry concluded by emphasizing the importance of these measures to strengthen the capacity of Iraq’s diplomatic cadre in representing national interests amidst regional and global challenges.