Sudani, new UNAMI chief discuss future UN relations

ERBIL, Kurdistan Region - The Iraqi premier received the new head of the UN Assistance Mission for Iraq (UNAMI) Mohamed al-Hassan on Sunday in Baghdad, discussing the UN’s future in the country following the conclusion of the UNAMI mission and regional stability.

“The meeting discussed the nature of the relationship between Iraq and the United Nations, particularly following the issuance of UN Security Council Resolution No. 2732, which ended the mission of UNAMI in Iraq,” read a statement from the office of Prime Minister Mohammed Shia’ al-Sudani.

The UNAMI mission is set to end on December 31, 2025. Sudani made the request in May through a letter submitted to the UN Secretary-General and Security Council, stressing the bilateral relationship should be “based on bilateral consultation and respect for Iraq's will and sovereignty.”

After meeting with Hassan, the Iraqi statement “expressed appreciation for the efforts made by UNAMI over the past years and emphasized that Iraq’s relationship with all international institutions and organizations will continue."

UNAMI has not released a statement on the meeting.

Hassan was appointed as the new UNAMI chief and the Secretary-General’s special representative for Iraq in July, succeeding Jeanine Hennis-Plasschaert. He arrived in Baghdad to assume his post and responsibilities on Thursday.

UNAMI was established in August 2003 at the request of Iraq under the Security Council Resolution 1500 to support Baghdad’s developmental efforts. Its mandate was extended annually.

The Iraqi government has cited greater security and stability for ending UNAMI’s mission.

During the meeting with Hassan, the Iraqi side affirmed its commitment to stability and regional security, while condemning “Zionist aggression” in Lebanon on the UN Interim Force In Lebanon. 

“[T]his attack demonstrates the Zionist entity’s disregard for international laws and norms, stressing the need for an international response,” read the PM’s statement.

While UNAMI does not directly implement developmental and humanitarian programs, it plays an advisory role in facilitating partnership and technical cooperation between the Iraqi government and the 20 UN agencies, funds, and programs operating in the country.