The European Institute for Dialogue and Development delegation met the Iraqi prime minister Mr. Muhammed Shia Al-Sudani, in the government palace in Baghdad on 16.1.2023 as part of the activities of the second stage of the Iraqi National Dialogue Initiative.
Mr. Al-Bahadli, the director of the Institute, started the meeting by presenting his gratitude to the prime minister for this opportunity. Then, he explained the main stations of the Initiative that began in 2019. Since its beginning, the Initiative has held over 60 sessions and roundtables with various components of Iraqi society.
Al-Bahadli also referred to the relative stability that Iraq is witnessing. Now, Iraq is experiencing prosperity that was never felt since 2003, especially after the country was on the brink of breakdown, the spark of which started in the Green Zone. It also coincides with the joyous incidents of the Gulf Cup 25, the most significant sports event after 2003. Moreover, the prime minister's political expertise contributed to the country's stability and security within a few months of his leadership.
Mr. Al-Bahadli also mentioned that the European Union is willing to contribute to the stability of the current Iraqi government. He also considers this stability a golden opportunity for the start of the second phase of the Iraqi National Dialogue Initiative.
On his part, the prime minister welcomed the European experts and congratulated their efforts in the success of the Iraqi National Dialogue Initiative. He considered it a step towards guaranteeing peaceful coexistence among all Iraqi components. He also presented his support for this Initiative which has the potential to stabilize the country further. In this regard, the prime minister clarified that his governmental program includes sponsoring the presence of various social components. He also highlighted the role of dialogue in his government and the importance of fighting corruption and poverty.