Baghdad: Iraq’s Permanent Representative to UNESCO, Asaad Turki, confirmed on Monday that the Prime Minister’s European tour aims to forge strategic alliances and partnerships across various levels and sectors. ‘Iraq is a candidate for the presidency of the UNESCO General Conference in 2029,’ Ambassador Turki told the Iraqi News Agency – INA, noting that “the Prime Minister’s European tour comes within the framework of establishing strategic alliances and partnerships at various levels, particularly following the conclusion of the file regarding the withdrawal of foreign forces at the end of this September.”

According to Iraqi News Agency, Ambassador Turki emphasized Iraq’s aspirations to form alliances with developed nations, particularly the French Republic, which he described as a cornerstone of European Union leadership. He highlighted that France hosts UNESCO, an organization comprising 196 member states. Ambassador Turki pointed out Iraq’s significant involvement with UNESCO, noting that the country is a founding member and has secured nine international positions. Currently, Iraq is a candidate for the presidency of the UNESCO General Conference, the highest international post it seeks to attain in 2029.

He further explained that with support from the Iraqi government, a high-level delegation, including ministers, has arrived in Europe to forge these alliances and foster cooperation. The delegation plans additional visits to the European Union to strengthen these partnerships, aligning with Iraq’s goal of becoming an active player at both regional and international levels.