The European Union Ambassador to Iraq, Clemens Smutner, announced on Tuesday the continuation of funding for development programs in Iraq, affirming the EU's commitment to supporting Iraq and its sustainable development programs.
Smutner stated that the EU Delegation and the Department of Civil Society and Non-Governmental Organizations at the General Secretariat of the Council of Ministers discussed the role of civil society organizations in driving change.
He added that civil society organizations play a significant role and are a cornerstone of empowering democracy, particularly in monitoring and following up on elections to ensure transparency.
He confirmed that UN funding for civil society organizations remains ongoing, noting that numerous programs are underway in Iraq, and therefore, support will continue for years to come.
He pointed out that a global grant crisis has caused some disruptions, but emphasized that the EU remains committed to Iraq. He explained that the EU has provided substantial support to Iraq, especially after the war against ISIS, through recovery and stabilization programs, and that this phase has now concluded.
He concluded by saying: “The current focus is on sustainable development in various sectors, including education and the financial and economic sectors, through diversifying the economy and providing consultations through European financial institutions that offer support and advice to Iraqi financial institutions with the aim of promoting economic diversification.”
The European Union reaffirms its commitment to supporting Iraq and its sustainable development programs.
