After 33 years, what’s behind Switzerland reopening embassy in Iraq?
Switzerland closed its embassy in Baghdad in 1991 amid the Gulf War and is seeking cooperation with Iraq on migration amid an influx into Europe.
Switzerland reopened its embassy in Baghdad on Tuesday in an effort to boost cooperation with Iraq on migration and economic matters.
The Swiss Federal Council said in a statement that “Iraq’s security situation has improved in recent years, following a period of severe internal conflicts,” pointing to the presence of French, German and Italian embassies in Baghdad.
“The country is now entering a phase of economic development while simultaneously playing an increasingly important role as a regional mediator and bridge-builder,” said the Federal Council. “Iraq has made consistent efforts over the last few years to promote peace and security in the region.”
The Iraqi Foreign Ministry called the reopening of the Swiss Embassy in Baghdad "a positive sign in the path of diplomatic relations," the official Iraqi News Agency reported.
