Kirkuk: The Chairman of Kirkuk Provincial Council, Mohammed Ibrahim Al-Hafez, hosted Claudio Cordone, the Deputy Special Representative of the United Nations Secretary-General for Political Affairs and Electoral Assistance, along with several members of the Provincial Council to discuss potential support for the political and electoral processes.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, Al-Hafez acknowledged the important role of the United Nations Assistance Mission for Iraq (UNAMI) in aiding the political and electoral landscape and enhancing security and stability in the Kirkuk Governorate. He emphasized the local government’s commitment to ongoing cooperation with the UN mission, highlighting its significance in supporting development and promoting community peace.

During the discussions, Al-Hafez highlighted the humanitarian issue concerning 138 destroyed Arab villages in the governorate, which still require governmental and international backing for reconstruction and the return of their residents. He urged the UN mission to intensify its involvement by garnering international support and providing the necessary technical and logistical help to ensure a safe and dignified return for the displaced villagers.

Claudio Cordone expressed gratitude for the support from the Iraqi government and provincial councils, especially the Kirkuk Provincial Council, which aids the mission’s operations and strengthens its collaboration with local authorities. He reaffirmed the UN’s dedication to assisting Iraq in achieving stability, bolstering the democratic process, and supporting reconstruction projects and the voluntary return of displaced individuals.

The meeting further delved into the political, administrative, and electoral challenges facing Kirkuk, underscoring the UN mission’s role in offering guidance and institutional support to advance good governance and uphold justice and equality among all segments of the Kirkuk community.