Commemorating the 100th year of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Iraq
On Dec. 13, 2024, the chargé d’affaires of the Iraq Embassy, Dr. Khalid Ibrahim Mohammed Alhamam, hosted a get-together dinner at the Embassy Chancery in Makati to mark the 100th anniversary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Iraq. The event gathered select guests and friends of the embassy.

Dr. Alhamam read a message from Dr. Fouad Hussein, the minister of foreign affairs of the Republic of Iraq, commemorating the centennial anniversary of the ministry, originally established in 1924 as the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the State of Iraq. The message reflected on the ministry’s legacy as a continuation of Iraq’s rich history and the enduring achievements of Mesopotamian civilizations.
Minister Dr. Fouad Hussein said “In the 20th century, as the modern Iraqi state began to take shape, Iraqi diplomacy played a pivotal role in safeguarding the country’s sovereignty and advancing its supreme national interests. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs took early political steps to demarcate Iraq's southern borders through the Muhammara Treaty of 1922. It also welcomed foreign missions to operate in Iraq and established several Iraqi consulates in neighboring countries. Furthermore, Iraq signed a treaty with Turkey in 1926, strengthening diplomatic ties, as well as a treaty of friendship and good neighborliness with the Kingdom of Hejaz and Najd. Diplomatic relations were also established between Iraq and Iran.”

“On the international stage, on Oct. 3, 1932, the Council of the League of Nations decided to admit Iraq as a member, making it the first Arab country to join the League after emerging from the British mandate. This milestone marked a significant step in enhancing the role of Iraqi diplomacy globally. As part of our efforts to enhance our work and elevate performance, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs held the Seventh Conference of Ambassadors last year, providing an opportunity to deliberate on diplomatic issues and improve efficiency.” he added.
In his statement, the minister highlighted the ministry’s steadfast commitment to preparing a skilled diplomatic cadre distinguished by exceptional competence and deep patriotism, aimed at strengthening the ministry’s capabilities. He also announced the imminent graduation of the 28th Diplomatic Cadre Training Course, which will introduce 152 new diplomats to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. These diplomats, representing various cities across Iraq, share a unified dedication to serving their country through the ministry.

The minister emphasized that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs continues to advance steadily through the efforts of its specialized staff, departments, and missions abroad. The ministry remains focused on implementing its strategic plan for 2023–2026 and achieving the objectives outlined in the government’s program. These efforts are designed to support accomplishments in Iraq’s political, security, economic, and consular fields, ensuring the well-being of Iraqi communities abroad and aligning with the government’s overarching vision and priorities.



