In a historic diplomatic milestone, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein and his Swiss counterpart Ignazio Cassis officially inaugurated the Swiss Embassy in Baghdad, marking Switzerland’s return to Iraq after more than three decades of absence.
The reopening ceremony, attended by senior Iraqi officials and members of the Swiss delegation, underscored the growing confidence in Iraq’s stability and its strengthened international ties.
A New Chapter in Iraq–Switzerland Relations
Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein described the embassy’s reopening as “an important step that reflects the depth of bilateral relations and the international community’s confidence in Iraq’s progress.”
He emphasized that Switzerland’s renewed presence in Baghdad would boost political and economic cooperation, attract new investment opportunities for Swiss companies, and expand collaboration in fields such as trade, development, and infrastructure.
Swiss Foreign Minister Ignazio Cassis echoed this sentiment, saying the decision to reopen the embassy highlights “the strength of our partnership and shared vision for enhanced cooperation.” He added that Switzerland’s return to Baghdad represents trust in Iraq’s regional role and its promising economic future.
Talks Focus on Economy, Water, and Migration
Following the inauguration, the two ministers held bilateral talks at the Iraqi Ministry of Foreign Affairs to discuss economic collaboration, water resource management, and migration issues, along with broader regional developments.
At a joint press conference, Minister Hussein noted that Switzerland’s expertise in water management could support Iraq in addressing key environmental and infrastructure challenges. Both sides also discussed partnerships between Iraqi and Swiss companies and preparations to sign a double taxation avoidance agreement to facilitate smoother business operations.
Progress on Visa and Migration Cooperation
Migration and travel were also key points of discussion. Minister Hussein welcomed Switzerland’s decision to issue visas for Iraqi citizens directly through its new embassy in Baghdad, ending the previous requirement to apply via Jordan.
He also confirmed that both sides discussed visa exemptions for diplomatic passport holders, and praised Switzerland’s willingness to cooperate on migration frameworks similar to Iraq’s recent agreements with the European Union.
Hussein further noted the participation of the Speaker of the Swiss Parliament in the delegation, calling it “a clear message of strengthening bilateral relations.”
Trade Growth and Future Prospects
Minister Cassis expressed admiration for Iraq’s urban and economic development, highlighting that bilateral trade has grown by 9% compared to last year. He said Switzerland views Iraq as “a pivotal partner in promoting regional stability and an emerging market full of opportunity.”
He concluded, “Switzerland believes in Iraq’s potential and its essential role in shaping a stable and prosperous Middle East. Our renewed diplomatic presence marks the beginning of a new phase of cooperation.”
