Iraqi PM meets with outgoing UNAMI head, gives symbolic Sumerian lyre as gift

ERBIL (Kurdistan 24) – The Prime Minister of Iraq Adil Abdul-Mahdi on Saturday met with outgoing Special Representative of the United Nations Secretary-General for Iraq Jan Kubis, as the latter’s duties come to an end.

While praising the role of Kubis since taking office at the beginning of 2015, Abdul-Mahdi highlighted strides made in Iraq regarding security following the liberation of areas controlled by the Islamic State (IS) last year, according to Prime Minister’s press office.

The consolidation of democracy, the formation of a new government representing people across the political spectrum, and the support of the international community to Iraq were some of the topics the two officials discussed.

Kubis commended Abdul-Mahdi and his new cabinet, stressing his confidence that the newly-formed federal government of Iraq “will achieve great successes and move Iraq towards reconstruction and the provision of services and stability,” according to the statement.

Abdul-Mahdi handed over a commemorative gift to Kubis for his role in Iraq. The gift was a symbolic Sumerian lyre which represents the ancient history of Iraq.

The new government is tasked with the reconstruction of the country after four years of war against the jihadist group, combatting widespread corruption, and providing better public services to people.

Editing by Nadia Riva