INA–Baghdad
Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein called on the European Union on Thursday to launch a political initiative to end the war.
A statement from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, received by the Iraqi News Agency (INA), indicated that "Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein received a phone call from Irish Foreign Minister Helen McEntee, during which she congratulated him on the renewal of confidence in him and his assumption of the duties of the Foreign Ministry for a new term."
"During the call, Iraqi-Irish relations and ways to develop and strengthen cooperation between the two countries were discussed, in addition to regional and international developments and the repercussions of the ongoing war in the region on the political and economic situation," the statement added.
According to the statement, Hussein reviewed the direct effects of the war on Iraq, particularly in the economic and financial aspects, pointing to the negative repercussions it has had on trade, energy, and economic stability in the region.
"The two sides discussed the issue of a ceasefire, the recent attacks in the Gulf region, and the impact of the continuation of the war on the global economy and energy markets," the statement stated.
"Both sides emphasized the importance of intensifying international efforts aimed at halting the war and preventing its escalation, thereby contributing to the strengthening of regional and international security and stability," according to the statement.
Hussein, according to the statement, proposed "the necessity for the European Union to launch a political initiative aimed at ending the war," noting that he "discussed this idea with his Dutch counterpart and intends to continue consultations on it with a number of European foreign ministers in the coming period."
Hussein explained that Iraq will work to develop this initiative and present it during the upcoming meeting to be held in the Jordanian capital, Amman, this month, with the participation of Arab and European foreign ministers.
"Europe possesses the capabilities that qualify it to play an active role in this regard, given its relations and contacts with various capitals concerned with and affected by the war," he confirmed, stressing that "merely observing is no longer an acceptable option in light of the widening repercussions of the crisis."
"Iraq is among the countries most affected by the continuation of the war, particularly on the economic and financial levels, due to the impact on the energy sector and oil export capabilities," he added.
Hussein pointed out that European countries are also affected by the repercussions of the crisis, as the rise in oil prices has contributed to increased inflation rates and higher costs for agricultural and industrial products in European markets.
"Iraq will present its vision regarding the role Europe can play in contributing to ending the war and achieving stability during the upcoming Amman meeting," Hussein highlighted.
Hussein concluded by expressing his thanks and appreciation to Helen McEntee for her call and the congratulations she conveyed.