Najaf: The Undersecretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for Political Planning Affairs, Ambassador Hisham Al-Alawi, took part in a dialogue session organized by the Platform Center for Sustainable Development in partnership with the Legislation Foundation for Sustainable Development. The session, held in Najaf Governorate, focused on “Iraqi Foreign Policy Priorities in a Changing Environment.”

According to National Iraqi News Agency, during the session, Ambassador Al-Alawi outlined the Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ role in shaping and implementing Iraq’s foreign policy, highlighting key phases since the 2003 regime change. He discussed efforts to reestablish Iraq’s international and regional standing, end its isolation, and enhance its role in the international arena. Al-Alawi also detailed the ministry’s government program priorities for 2023-2025, which he is responsible for developing and executing.

Ambassador Al-Alawi addressed regional developments, including the situation in Syria, Israeli actions against Palestinians, and tensions between Iran and the United States. He emphasized the government’s strategy for addressing these issues, the potential for Iraq to play a mediating role, and the government’s approach to engaging with the new US administration.

Further, Al-Alawi discussed Iraq’s relations with major powers and international organizations, noting significant progress following successful visits by the Prime Minister and Foreign Minister. He highlighted Iraq’s active participation in regional and Arab organizations.

The session concluded with a Q and A segment, where attendees, including researchers, academics, media professionals, and religious scholars, posed questions to the Undersecretary, which he addressed comprehensively.