Fouad Hussein, the Foreign Minister of Iraq, reported in an exclusive interview with the media in Berlin on the results of the high-level Iraqi delegation's negotiations with German officials. These meetings took place on Tuesday, September 15, 2026, and Hussein emphasized that the topic of the continued presence of German forces in Iraq was not discussed in these sessions.
Positive Results of the Negotiations
The Foreign Minister of Iraq, in response to a reporter's question about the content of these meetings, said: "The meetings with the President and Chancellor of Germany, as well as representatives of companies, were very good. We are looking to strengthen bilateral relations and economic cooperation."
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Fouad Hussein further responded to the question of whether Baghdad has asked Berlin to maintain its forces in Iraq, emphasizing: "That was not discussed. We are currently focusing on economic and developmental issues."
Security Situation After September 30
The Foreign Minister of Iraq also referred to the security situation in his country and the possibility of developments after September 30, the date set for the end of the international coalition's military mission in Iraq. He expressed hope that "nothing will happen and the situation will remain calm."
These statements come as a high-level delegation from Iraq, headed by Ali Faleh Al-Zaydi, the Prime Minister of the country, has traveled to Berlin. This visit aims to strengthen bilateral cooperation and discuss important regional and international issues.
Previously, Friedrich Merz, the Chancellor of Germany, emphasized in discussions with the media that his country would end its military presence in Iraq on September 30 at Baghdad's request. This decision was made following high-level negotiations and reflects a shift in Germany's approach to its role in the Middle East.
As Germany and Iraq seek to strengthen their relations, these developments could have wide-ranging implications for the security situation in the region. Many experts believe that changes in the presence of foreign forces could impact Iraq's political and social stability, and the country's governmental institutions must be prepared for any developments.
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