Iraqi Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi stressed on Monday that his government is forging ahead in building a “free” and “sovereign” Iraq, adding that international coalition forces will complete their withdrawal on September 30.
“Since assuming responsibility for the government, we have pledged to move toward building a fully sovereign Iraq in which the people enjoy all the foundations of respect, dignity and security, and whose citizens cooperate in protecting the country and safeguarding its wealth and the future of its generations,” he said during a speech at an event in Baghdad marking the Prophet Muhammed’s birthday.
Iraq will declare the completion of its sovereignty over its entire territory on September 30, he announced, reported Iraq’s state news agency INA.
Moreover, he said: “Iraq should not be a platform for harming others.”
“Our region has lived for decades amid ongoing tensions that have led to divisions in the approaches and governing visions of the countries of the Arab and Islamic world,” remarked al-Zaidi.
“Our government program included a clear approach to construction and reform, combating corruption and strengthening a productive working environment, alongside building security institutions operating under the framework of the Constitution.”
Earlier, al-Zaidi received in Baghdad Commander of German Forces Deployed Abroad Gunter Schneider.
The PM highlighted “the importance of transitioning toward multidimensional relations with the coalition countries.”
The meeting reviewed preparations for completing the withdrawal of coalition forces from Iraq.
Al-Zaidi commended Germany’s longstanding role in assisting Iraq in its fight against terrorism, particularly during the war on ISIS.
