The UN Security Council's virtual meeting on the Iraq situation held on February 16 (US time). — VNA/VNS Photo

HÀ NỘI — Việt Nam condemns all terrorist attacks and extreme violence in Iraq, Việt Nam’s representative said at an online meeting of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) on Tuesday (US Time).

Ambassador Đặng Đình Quý, Permanent Representative of Việt Nam to the UN, lauded efforts by the Iraqi government as well as progress made recently, but expressed his concern over the security situation in the country.

Regarding the upcoming election in Iraq, Quý said it should be free and fair, with widespread participation, including of young people and women, ensured.

The ambassador also called on the international community to continue realising commitments to supporting Iraq, while respecting its political independence, and territorial integrity and sovereignty.

Việt Nam welcomed the enhanced co-operation between Iraq and Kuwait in searching for Kuwaiti and third-country nationals who went missing in Iraq, and returning Kuwaiti property in line with the UNSC’s Resolution 2107, he said.  

Special Representative and head of the UN Assistance Mission for Iraq (UNAMI) Jeanine Hennis-Plasschaert briefed the meeting on the situation in Iraq, saying apart from economic challenges caused by falling oil prices and the COVID-19 pandemic, the security environment in Iraq remains complex, with continued terrorist attacks.

The Iraqi government has made efforts in the COVID-19 fight and economic recovery, she said, adding that the country rescheduled its election for October 10, 2021.

She also provided an update on the operation of the UNAMI to help the Iraqi government and people stabilise the situation and handle  difficulties.

Việt Nam and other UNSC members noted their concern over the impact of COVID-19 in Iraq and other difficulties facing the country and called for international support for efforts of the UNAMI as well as UN organisations. — VNS