Visit to Iraq

  • Media release

On 18-19 October I visited Iraq to demonstrate Australia's strong support for the Iraqi people in combating ISIL. This terrorist organisation is a major threat to the security of Iraq, the Middle East region and the international community.

In my meetings with the Prime Minister Al-Abadi, Foreign Minister Al-Ja'afari, President Masoum, and Council of Representatives Speaker Al-Jabouri, I reiterated Australia's commitment to provide military assistance to the Iraqi Government.

I also finalised legal arrangements for the deployment of Australian Special Forces to advise and assist the Iraqi Security Forces.

I received briefings from Iraqi leaders and international coalition partners on the campaign against ISIL and the current political situation.I emphasised the importance of the Iraqi Government's efforts to deliver policies that share power and resources amongst Iraq's various communities.I also met groups of minority leaders to hear their concerns and to underline Australia's close interest in the protection of minorities in Iraq.

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