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Minister Burt visits Iraq to underline UK support

Minister for the Middle East Alistair Burt visited Iraq on 15-16 July to stress the UK’s continued support for Iraq after the defeat of Daesh in Mosul.

• From: Foreign & Commonwealth Office and The Rt Hon Alistair Burt
• Published: 17 July 2017
• Last updated: 17 July 2017 — See all updates

This was published under the 2016 to 2019 May Conservative government

During his visit Mr Burt congratulated Iraqi leaders for the professionalism of the Iraqi Security Forces and the courage of the Iraqi people.

He met with Iraqi leaders including President Massum, Prime Minister Abadi and Foreign Minister Jaafari. Mr Burt also met with Deputy Special Representative for the United Nations Assistance Mission for Iraq, Lise Grande, as well as key international partners and UK military personnel.

Mr Burt emphasised that the collapse of Daesh in Mosul represents a major step forward in the global fight against international terrorism. He also stressed the importance of following up the military success with stabilisation and humanitarian assistance in liberated areas, progress on a lasting political solution, and efforts to rebuild the local economy.

Commenting on his trip, Minister Burt said:

Visiting Iraq was an important opportunity for me to congratulate personally Iraqi leaders, their security forces, and all Iraqis, on their victory in Mosul.

It is vital that the international community stands by Iraq as it begins the painstaking task of rebuilding and reconciling so that families can return home safely. And I’m proud that the UK, as part of the Global Coalition will continue to play a leading role in providing military, humanitarian and stabilisation support to the government of Iraq. I was pleased to thank some of our Armed Forces directly for their contribution.

We will also continue to work closely with Iraq and our international partners to promote reconciliation and economic development, to foster long-term peace and stability.

Minister for Middle East Alistair Burts reports from his visit:

Minister for Middle East, Iraq

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Published 17 July 2017
Last updated 17 July 2017 + show all updates

1. 17 July 2017

   Minister video added

2. 17 July 2017

   First published.