NATO and Iraq have agreed to establish a dedicated alliance office in Baghdad as part of efforts to deepen defence cooperation and strengthen the country’s security institutions.
The agreement was reached during a conference call between Iraqi National Security Advisor Qasim Al-Aboudi and NATO Mission Iraq Commander Lieutenant General Ramon Armada, according to the Iraqi News Agency.
During the talks, both sides discussed the importance of easing regional tensions and stressed that recurring crises should be resolved through dialogue and diplomatic engagement.
They also reviewed NATO’s continued support for the Iraqi armed forces through advisory services, military training and the exchange of expertise and information.
NATO Mission Iraq was established in 2018 at the request of the Iraqi government. The non-combat mission focuses on helping Iraq develop professional and sustainable defence institutions while supporting efforts to prevent the return of extremist groups, including ISIS.
Beyond military training, the mission also works with Iraqi institutions on defence reforms, governance, anti-corruption measures and human rights standards.
General Armada reaffirmed NATO’s commitment to supporting Iraq in line with the priorities set by the Iraqi government, describing the alliance’s role as one centred on institutional cooperation rather than combat operations.
Al-Aboudi said the expanded partnership would help modernise Iraq’s armed forces while preserving national sovereignty. He also highlighted opportunities to strengthen cooperation in emerging fields such as cybersecurity and artificial intelligence, alongside broader engagement with NATO member states.
