Baghdad: Iraqi Minister of Interior Abdul Amir Al-Shammari announced on Friday the signing of a comprehensive security memorandum of understanding with Swedish Minister of Justice Gunnar Str¶mmer in Stockholm, aimed at strengthening cooperation between Iraq and Sweden in law enforcement and combating transnational organized crime.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, the Ministry of Interior stated in a press release that the agreement seeks to enhance bilateral relations and boost coordination in key areas, including combating drug trafficking, financial crimes, money laundering, arms and explosives smuggling, as well as cybersecurity, training, and the exchange of information and expertise.

The statement added that the meeting, held as part of Al-Shammari’s official visit to Sweden, included discussions on ways to advance security cooperation and activate joint partnerships between the two countries.

During the meeting, Al-Shammari urged the Swedish government to reopen its embassy in Baghdad, stressing that such a step would significantly strengthen diplomatic and security ties and facilitate direct cooperation between government institutions in both nations.

The Minister of Interior emphasized that ‘the memorandum of understanding represents a new starting point for an effective security partnership between Iraq and Sweden,’ reaffirming the Ministry’s commitment to expanding international cooperation in combating crime and enhancing the capabilities of Iraq’s security and intelligence agencies.

For his part, the Swedish Minister of Justice expressed his country’s appreciation for Iraq’s efforts in combating crime and terrorism, affirming Sweden’s commitment to supporting cooperation with the Iraqi Ministry of Interior in training, exchanging expertise, and implementing best security practices.