Switzerland Reopens Embassy In Baghdad After 33-Year Closure

Switzerland has reopened its embassy in Baghdad, marking the end of a 33-year hiatus since its closure following the Gulf War.

The Iraqi Foreign Ministry announced on Tuesday that the reopening of the Swiss embassy aims to strengthen bilateral relations between Iraq and Switzerland. The Ministry highlighted that the move reflects both countries’ commitment to enhancing cooperation across various sectors.

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In its statement, the Iraqi Foreign Ministry expressed optimism about deepening partnership and dialogue with Switzerland, and it is working to create favorable conditions to boost bilateral cooperation, according to Xinhua news agency.

Swiss media outlet SWI swissinfo.ch reported that the Swiss Foreign Ministry cited the improved security situation in Iraq as a primary factor in the decision to re-establish the diplomatic mission in Baghdad. This step aligns with Switzerland’s broader strategy to expand its presence in the Middle East and North Africa.

The Swiss Embassy further emphasized that discussions between the two nations will prioritize immigration issues among other topics. The recent improvements in Iraq’s security landscape were instrumental in the decision to renew diplomatic relations.

High-Level Relations

The Iraqi Foreign Ministry welcomed the embassy’s reopening, viewing it as a positive development that reflects both countries’ mutual desire to enhance high-level relations. The Ministry expressed hope that this renewed engagement will foster increased cooperation in various fields.

However, Iraq offers promising opportunities for Swiss companies, especially in the energy sector, and Switzerland is keen to collaborate on migration issues. The Swiss embassy in Baghdad will handle diplomatic relations, while the Swiss embassy in Amman, Jordan, will continue to manage consular services and visa inquiries.

Switzerland closed its embassy in Iraq after the 1991 Gulf War, which aimed to expel Saddam Hussein’s forces from Kuwait. The closure was later exacerbated by Iraq’s instability following the 2003 overthrow of Saddam Hussein and the Islamic State’s control of Mosul in 2014, which was restored to government control only in 2017.