Baghdad, 30 June 2009 – The departing Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Iraq (SRSG), Staffan de Mistura, today congratulated the Government of Iraq headed by Prime Minister Nuri al-Maliki on its steady progress towards restoration of full sovereignty for the country, as well as for its efforts towards a more stable, democratic and unified Iraq.

While the Iraqi people and government is today celebrating the withdrawal of the MNF-I forces from Iraqi cities, towns and villages the SRSG said that “what has been achieved is a real source for congratulation.   I know that the Government is fully aware of what remains to be done in providing better services to the people, greater inclusiveness at many levels, and improved security for all.  But significant progress has been achieved on many fronts.  The United Nations Assistance Mission to Iraq has worked hard to contribute to this progress in a number of areas, and my colleagues who will remain behind in the country are totally dedicated to continuing these efforts.” 

On his last day in office as Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Iraq, Mr. de Mistura also said that “The primary responsibility for putting Iraq on an irreversible path towards lasting peace and development rests with the people of this great country, who are relying on their political leaders to put the needs of the State and of the people above all other interests.   It has been my privilege to have served the United Nations and the people of Iraq during this period when such important advances have been made.”