Spain sends message to Baghdad on new Iraqi government

BAGHDAD, Iraq — Spain described the formation of a new government in Iraq as an important opportunity to strengthen ties between the two countries, according to Iraq’s Foreign Ministry. The ministry said Spanish Foreign Minister Jose Manuel Albares sent a congratulatory message on Wednesday to Iraqi Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein on his reappointment. Albares said the new government provides a suitable basis for advancing friendship and cooperation between Spain and Iraq. He also called for joint work on global and regional issues based on international law and multilateralism, the ministry said. Spain reiterated its commitment to continue cooperation and coordination with Iraq to support peace, security and stability in the region. The statement said both sides aim to expand areas of cooperation in the coming period.