DUBAI, UAE - Iraqi Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein on Saturday met with British National Security Advisor Jonathan Powell and discussed the political situation in Syria and Iraq’s concerns over Islamic State (ISIS) activity.

Hussein met with Powell on the sidelines of the Munich Security Conference in Germany to discuss the political situation in Syria and the ongoing threat posed by ISIS militants operating within Syrian borders.

Hussein expressed Iraq’s concerns over the resurgence of ISIS activity in Syria, according to a statement from his office obtained by The New Region.

The statement also highlighted discussions on the fate of ISIS-affiliated prisoners held by the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF). 

Hussein noted that Iraq has begun repatriating Iraqi nationals among the detainees and transferring them to prisons inside the country.

Both officials also addressed regional and international efforts to stabilize Syria and the broader Middle East. Hussein shared details of his recent meeting with Syria’s foreign minister in Paris.

Hussein emphasized the importance of an inclusive political process in Syria, urging that all factions and communities be represented. He reaffirmed Iraq’s willingness to support efforts aimed at ensuring broad participation in Syria’s future governance and preventing unilateral decision-making.

Meanwhile, Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia’ al-Sudani met with Powell in Munich too. According to a statement from Sudani’s office, the two officials discussed bilateral relations and security coordination in light of the joint defense and security declaration signed during Sudani’s visit to the UK last month.

Powell conveyed the greetings of British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and praised Sudani’s recent visit to the UK as a success. He reaffirmed Britain’s commitment to working closely with Iraq on various regional and security matters.