ERBIL, Kurdistan Region - United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres and Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia’ al-Sudani on Saturday praised Iraq’s progress after years of conflict while marking the conclusion of the UN Assistance Mission in Iraq (UNAMI), stressing continued cooperation with the UN.
“Our objective has always been to support the government of Iraq… and to do it with strong commitment, but always respecting the ownership of the Iraqi people, of its process of development,” Guterres said at a joint press conference with Sudani. “Many UN agencies, funds and specialized programmes will remain here, continuing their vital development work in support of Iraq and Iraqis.”
UNAMI was established in 2003 at the request of Iraqi authorities following the US-led invasion. While the mission does not directly implement humanitarian or development programs, it has played a key coordinating role for more than 20 UN agencies operating in Iraq. Its head, Mohamed Al Hassan, also serves as the Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General for Iraq.
“Iraqis have worked to overcome decades of violence, oppression, war, terrorism, sectarianism and foreign interference,” Guterres said.
UNAMI’s mandate, which is renewed annually by the UN Security Council, is set to expire on December 31, 2025, after Sudani formally requested its conclusion in May 2024. At the time, the prime minister cited improved security conditions and political stability as reasons for ending the mission.
Sudani praised Guterres and the UN’s role in Iraq, saying, “We take pride in Mr. Guterres’ positions, his constructive cooperation, and his commitment to advancing numerous files and issues, and to strengthening relations between Iraq and the United Nations.”
He added that Iraq “highly commends” the mission’s record, emphasizing that “the conclusion of UNAMI’s mandate does not mean the end of the partnership between Iraq and the United Nations,” but rather “marks the beginning of a new chapter of cooperation, particularly in the fields of development, economic growth, and advisory support.”
A commemorative monument honoring the United Nations’ role in Iraq will be placed alongside the Unknown Soldier Monument in the capital, Sudani said. The monument is dedicated to fallen Iraqi soldiers
Guterres arrived in Baghdad earlier on Saturday and was received by Iraqi Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein, who “affirmed the appreciation” of the Iraqi government for the UN’s support.
UNAMI’s responsibilities have included facilitating political dialogue among Iraqi factions and with neighboring states, supporting electoral processes, monitoring human rights, and coordinating humanitarian assistance in conflict-affected areas. Critics have warned that ending the mission could lead to reduced international oversight, particularly during future elections.