EU, Iraq Discuss Irregular Migration, Smugglings

The European Union (EU) and Iraq have discussed the issue of irregular migration and curbing smuggling networks.

The Anadolu news agency disclosed on Wednesday that the development came during a meeting between Iraqi Foreign Minister, Fouad Hussein, and the European Union Commissioner for Home Affairs, Ylva Johansson.

The Iraqi Foreign Ministry also added that Hussein reviewed the latest measures taken by the Iraqi government to help Iraqis wishing to voluntarily return to the homeland.

It said programmes to encourage the voluntary return of Iraqis whose residency requests had been rejected in European countries must be supported.

Johansson also stressed on the depth and strength of relations between the two sides, praising Iraq's role in eliminating the Daesh group.

She also praised Iraq's cooperation with the European Union to curb illegal immigration and limit its negative consequences, as well as the Iraqi government's efforts to combat smuggling networks and facilitate the voluntary return of migrants.