Abbasid Palace Welcomes NATO Mission Delegation

A delegation from the NATO Mission in Iraq, headed by General Lucas Schrurz, paid a visit to the historic Abbasid Palace in the heart of Baghdad. The group was welcomed and guided by Dr Nada Alawi, the site’s official, who offered an in-depth overview of the palace’s significance as a treasured historical landmark.

Dr Alawi highlighted that the efforts of Mr Ali Obeid Shalgam, Chairman of the General Authority for Antiquities and Heritage, along with the continued support from Assistant Director General of the Department of Investigations and Excavations, Ahmed Abdul Jabbar, and Baghdad Antiquities and Heritage Inspector, Ali Bassem, have strengthened the morale and professionalism of the site’s archaeological and administrative teams. Their commitment has been particularly notable in light of Baghdad’s selection as the Arab Tourism Capital for 2025, which has brought renewed attention and engagement to the capital’s cultural sites.

General Schrurz and the delegation expressed their admiration for Iraq’s rich cultural legacy. He noted that the sense of stability returning to the country has once again opened the door to those eager to explore its remarkable heritage. “This civilisation, which has deeply inspired the world and enriched humanity, continues to captivate all who encounter it,” Schrurz stated.

Source: Ministry of Culture, Tourism and Antiquities