Christiane Hohmann, the German Ambassador to Iraq, addressed key areas of bilateral cooperation with Iraq, including security, economic development, refugee issues, and gender equality. She emphasized counterterrorism efforts against ISIS, the importance of economic diversification, and the challenges regarding women’s rights in Iraq.
The German Ambassador to Iraq, Christiane Hohmann, recently discussed the comprehensive partnership between Germany and Iraq, which encompasses security cooperation, economic development, refugee issues, and the promotion of women’s rights. This collaboration is vital for enhancing stability and addressing ongoing challenges in the region.
Ambassador Hohmann underscored the critical nature of security cooperation between Baghdad and Berlin, particularly regarding counterterrorism efforts against ISIS. Germany has supported Iraq through initiatives like the Global Coalition against ISIS, NATO Mission Iraq, and the European Union Advisory Mission, while also providing military advisors under Operation Inherent Resolve. She highlighted the recent discussions between the Iraqi and German defense ministers aimed at bolstering defense ties amid regional threats from ISIS’s resurgence.
Regarding economic development, Hohmann expressed urgency for Iraq to diversify its economy, which is currently heavily reliant on oil revenue. She mentioned a joint work program initiated by German Chancellor Olaf Scholz and Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani that focuses on enhancing public services and infrastructure. German firms are engaging in significant projects, such as modernizing Iraq’s electricity sector and creating job opportunities, like a glass factory in Najaf.
The issue of Iraqi refugees and deportees was also addressed, with Ambassador Hohmann reporting that Egypt has received many Iraqi migrants in recent years. While she noted the potential dangers of irregular migration, she also described Germany’s facilitation of voluntary returns for around 20,000 Iraqis facing deportation through counseling and training programs.
In terms of the Kurdistan Region, Hohmann conveyed the importance of maintaining strong relations and outlined Germany’s commitment to supporting internal displaced persons (IDPs) there. With a focus on reconstruction and trauma recovery for the Yazidi community, Germany collaborates with local authorities to address housing and employment needs and facilitate social reintegration.
On women’s rights, Hohmann acknowledged the ongoing challenges in Germany and Iraq alike, emphasizing that social conservatism hampers progress in gender equality efforts in Iraq. She expressed concerns about proposed amendments to the Personal Status Law that may negatively affect women’s rights. Ambassador Hohmann highlighted the critical role of legal frameworks in shaping the future of gender equality, cautioning against any rollback in advancements made to date.
In summary, the German Ambassador to Iraq, Christiane Hohmann, articulated the importance of multifaceted cooperation between Germany and Iraq, focusing on security, economic diversification, refugee management, and the promotion of women’s rights. Efforts to counter ISIS, enhance economic infrastructures, and support the Kurdish region and IDPs hold significant importance for stabilizing Iraq. Moreover, the pursuit of gender equality remains a pressing challenge, necessitating a careful examination of proposed legal reforms affecting women’s rights.
Original Source: shafaq.com
