Baghdad: Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Fuad Hussein emphasized that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, with its men and women, has made significant sacrifices in defense of Iraq’s sovereignty, unity, and dignity.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, the ministry held a memorial ceremony on Tuesday to mark the 16th anniversary of the terrorist bombing that targeted its building in 2009, resulting in the martyrdom of 45 ministry employees and injuring dozens more.

The solemn event was attended by the ministry’s undersecretaries, department heads, and relatives of the martyrs, beginning with the recitation of Quranic verses in honor of those who lost their lives. In a symbolic gesture, Minister Hussein, accompanied by a guard of honor, laid a wreath at a plaque bearing the names of the martyrs to honor their sacrifices.

In his address, Minister Hussein highlighted the ministry’s resilience and determination in the face of such great loss, stating that the martyrdom of distinguished diplomats and administrative staff only strengthened the institution’s resolve against terrorism. He noted that commemorating the tragic event serves not only as a moment of grief but also as a renewal of the commitment made by the martyrs to serve Iraq and boost its regional and international presence.

Minister Hussein also recalled the terrorist bombing of the United Nations building in Baghdad on August 19, 2003, which resulted in the death of UN envoy Sergio Vieira de Mello and several UN staff members. The ceremony concluded with Minister Hussein meeting with some of the martyrs’ relatives, reaffirming the ministry’s appreciation for their status and the sacrifices of their loved ones.