In the coming days, the Austrian Armed Forces will send two officers and two non-commissioned officers to a NATO training and advisory mission in Iraq. The situation in Iraq has stabilized in recent years and it is now important to continue supporting the country, Defense Minister Klaudia Tanner said on Wednesday.
“The fragile security situation and unstable state institutions contribute to the increase in terrorism, illegal migration and human trafficking. It is important to note that these developments also have consequences for Europe. Through our training and education mission, we can make an effective contribution to improving the situation,” said Tanner.
“Participation in the NATO mission in Iraq underlines our role as a reliable partner in international peacekeeping and further complements our comprehensive commitment following the opening of the embassy in Baghdad in 2023. Security and stability in Iraq have a direct impact on our security, especially when it comes to new migration flows towards Europe,” said Foreign Minister Alexander Schallenberg.
Since 1994 “Partnership for Peace”
According to the Ministry of Defense, the Austrian Armed Forces have been a reliable partner in the ‘Partnership for Peace’ for decades. This initiative was launched by NATO in 1994 to increase stability and security in the Euro-Atlantic region. UN Security Council Resolution 2249 of 20 November 2015, which called on all UN states to stop terrorist activities in Iraq, provides the legal basis for Austria’s participation.
The NATO mission is intended to help Iraq build more sustainable, transparent, inclusive and effective military and security institutions. By strengthening security institutions and armed forces, the aim is to stabilize the country and prevent IS from returning. Austria’s participation is initially planned for six months.
Source: Krone
I am Ida Scott, a journalist and content author with a passion for uncovering the truth. I have been writing professionally for Today Times Live since 2020 and specialize in political news. My career began when I was just 17; I had already developed a knack for research and an eye for detail which made me stand out from my peers.
