Iraq welcomes Italian travel guidance revision as security improves post-ISIS&l
Source: bne IntelliNews
Iraq’s Foreign Ministry has welcomed the Italian government’s decision to partially revise travel guidance for Italian citizens wishing to visit, INA reported on December 19.
Travel restrictions on Iraq were imposed in previous phases due to security conditions the country experienced in recent years including ISIS’ (Islamic State) invasion in the north. European airlines have begun to return with Greece’s Aegean being the first to relaunch flights earlier this month.
The ministry stated the decision “represents an objective assessment of the notable improvement in the security situation, contributes to strengthening international confidence, and supports prospects for bilateral cooperation in tourism, economic and cultural fields, as well as encouraging visits and exchanges between the two friendly countries”.
The development follows a visit by Iraqi Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein to Rome, where he held constructive discussions with his Italian counterpart Antonio Tajani.
The talks addressed bilateral relations and affirmed the importance of strengthening joint cooperation, particularly regarding security assessment and facilitating travel between the two countries.
Hussein had requested Tajani reconsider travel restrictions imposed on Iraq given the improvement in the country’s security situation during their meeting in Rome.
The ministry renewed its commitment to continue working with international partners to promote stability and establish Iraq’s position as a safe destination for visitors.
Earlier on December 16, Iraq’s Foreign Ministry welcomed the Swiss government’s decision to lift travel bans imposed on several Iraqi cities, in a first step that included Baghdad, Basra, Najaf, Babylon and Karbala, as well as Iraq’s Kurdistan region.
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