The EU-Iraq Partnership and Cooperation Agreement will mean the establishment of a comprehensive platform for enhancing ties and cooperation in a wide range of areas, from political matters such as countering terrorism and promoting human rights, to trade and investment in key areas such as energy and services.
 

Catherine Ashton, High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy/Vice President of the European Commission signed with the Foreign Minister of Iraq, His Excellency Hoshyar Zebari, the EU-Iraq Partnership and Cooperation Agreement. The EU-Iraq Partnership and Cooperation Agreement provides for regular political dialogue on bilateral, regional and global issues wherever the EU and Iraq have a shared interest in working together. The Council authorised the signing of this partnership and cooperation agreement in December 2011.

The agreement contains provisions in areas such as combating terrorism, countering proliferation of weapons of mass destruction, and promoting human rights. It will improve and clarify the trade arrangements between Iraq and the EU, to promote vital investment and to help integrate Iraq into the international economy. It also sets out a framework for continuing cooperation in many areas, from heath and education to environment and energy.

According to Catherine Ashton the agreement is above all a symbol of the EU’s wish to be a positive partner for Iraq in its democratic efforts. It is also part of the EU's commitment with Iraq. This commitment is also reflected in more than €1 billion already contributed by the European Union towards the reconstruction of Iraq since 2003, with a focus on assisting the Iraqi people to access basic services, further democracy, and promote good governance.