The Vietnamese diplomat hailed efforts of the Iraqi Government, as well as praising recent progress, adding his concern over the security situation in the Middle-Eastern country.

With regard to upcoming elections which will take place in Iraq, Ambassador Quy said they should be both free and fair, whilst featuring the widespread participation of citizens, including Iraqi youths and women.

Furthermore, the Vietnamese Ambassador also called on the international community to continue meetings its commitments to support Iraq, while fully respecting its political independence, territorial integrity, and sovereignty.

Vietnam therefore welcomes enhanced co-operation between Iraq and Kuwait in searching for Kuwaiti and third-country nationals who have gone missing in Iraq, along with returning Kuwaiti property in line with the UNSC’s Resolution 2107, he emphasised.

Jeanine Hennis-Plasschaert, special representative and head of the UN Assistance Mission for Iraq (UNAMI), briefed the meeting on the ongoing situation in Iraq, stating that along with economic challenges caused by falling oil prices and the novel coronavirus (COVID-19), the security environment is complex. Indeed, there are still a number of terrorist attacks which target innocent people.

She also provided an update on the operation of the UNAMI that can help the Iraqi Government and people stabilise the current situation and whilst handling ongoing difficulties.

Moreover, Vietnam was joined by other UNSC members in expressing concern over the impact of COVID-19 in Iraq and other difficulties facing the Middle-Eastern country, therefore calling for added international support for efforts of the UNAMI, as well as UN organisations.