BAGHDAD, 19 March 2020, TON: People in the Iraqi capital Baghdad on Thursday, 19 March complaint of non presence of EU staff at  EU Advisory Mission in Iraq (EUAM Iraq), which is part of the Common Security and Defence Policy (CSDP),various Embassies and setups including International Non Government Organizations (INGOs). In a latest development the European Union (EU) members and the officials in Baghdad are thinning up since few weeks and the offices seems abandoned. There is a general perception that EU has deleted Iraq from the priority list.

EUAM Iraq was established on 16 October 2017 by the Council of the EU in response to a request from the western-installed Iraqi Government for the EU to provide advice and assistance on the implementation of civilian aspects of the National Security Strategy. The Mission informs planning for potential further EU engagement, and assist in the coordination of EU and Member States' assistance in the civilian Security Sector domain.

The High Representative / Vice President European Commission in reply said today, “EU is committed to remain fully engaged in Iraq. The EU Delegation and Mission continue to operate on the ground and the EU has no intention of leaving the country”.

The statement added, “The EU intends to continue its efforts to help Iraqis develop a well-functioning security sector that is respectful of human rights principles. However and in light of the current situation, necessary and appropriate security measures are being taken. The security of EU staff is a priority”.

In January this year, US military’s Task Force Iraq, Brigadier General William Seely issued statements that American troops were preparing to pull out of the country. However, later the report that US-led coalition would “be repositioning forces over the course of the coming days and weeks” was denied by the Pentagon.