Latvian diplomats discuss co-operation opportunities with Ambassador of Iraq to Poland and Lithuania

From 27 to 30 January, the Ambassador of Iraq to Poland and Lithuania, Walid Hamid Shiltagh, is on a working visit to Riga. On 28 and 29 January, the Ambassador of Iraq met with the Secretary of State of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Andris Teikmanis, with the Under-Secretary of State, Political Director Peteris Ustubs, and also with the Head of the Bilateral Relations Direction, Ambassador Eduards Stiprais. During the meetings, the parties reviewed the development of Latvia-Iraq bilateral relations and multilateral co-operation as well as the future prospects of such co-operation.

Since 2003, Latvia has been providing support to Iraq through the implementation of projects targeted at the strengthening of democracy, civil society and the rule of law. In 2005, under the project Latvian Government Assistance to Iraq in the Documentation of Architectural and Archaeological Objects with Photogrammetric Methods, Latvian experts shared their experience with Iraqi archeologists about the preservation of historical and cultural heritage.

Last year, the Government of Latvia allocated 30 000 LVL for support to civil society in Iraq.  As part of the project, the Ministry fo Foreign Affairs, in association with the non-governmental organisation Lidere (female leader), hosted a delegation of Iraqi businesswomen in Riga.

Iraq recognised Latvia's independence on 1 January 1992. Latvia established diplomatic relations with Iraq on 15 October 2004. The relations between Latvia and Iraq have been friendly and constructive.

From 2003 to 2008, personnel of the National Armed Forces of Latvia took part in the international operation in Iraq led by  the Multi-National Force coalition.

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