Europe

Switzerland reopens its embassy in Iraq after more than 30 years of closure

Switzerland reopens its embassy in Iraq after more than 30 years of closure

September 3 () –

The Swiss government announced on Tuesday the reopening of its embassy in the Iraqi capital, Baghdad, after more than 30 years of closure following the outbreak of the Gulf War in 1991, in an attempt by Bern to “strengthen” relations with the Asian country.

The Swiss Foreign Ministry said in a statement on its website that the country “has a diplomatic presence in Iraq from today” and added that it hopes to “strengthen bilateral relations with Iraq and deepen cooperation on the economic, security and migration levels.”

He stressed that he had planned the reopening “for some time” and recalled that this option was included in the Strategy for the Middle East and North Africa 2021-2024. “After a period of serious internal conflicts, Iraq has seen an improvement in its political context and security situation,” he explained.

“The Federal Council has long recognised the importance of Iraq in the region,” he said, adding that Baghdad “could soon realise its economic potential, previously undermined by years of war” and “is emerging as a central political player in the region” due to its “close relations with Iran, the Gulf monarchies and the United States.”

The Swiss embassy in Baghdad has therefore been reopened, arguing that it would allow Switzerland to “strengthen its role as an actor in promoting peace and providing humanitarian aid.” The legation was closed in 1991 and the liaison office opened in 2000 was closed in 2008 for security reasons, after which Bern accredited its embassy in Jordan for relations with Iraq.

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