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BAGHDAD, October 7. The Chief of the Iraqi Joint Forces and Commanding General NATO Training Mission – Iraq today presided over the graduation of 64 officers from the third Junior Staff Course at the Iraqi Joint Staff College in Ar Rustamiyah, Baghdad.

The graduation was the culmination of an 11 month course which included tuition on: human rights and international law; military leadership; staff procedures; international relations and security co-operation. The students included representatives from the Iraqi Army, Iraqi Navy and the Ministry of Interior and ranged from Captain to Lieutenant Colonel.

Addressing the students, General Babakir, Chief of the Iraqi Joint Forces, stated: “The Iraqi Army and Security Forces are proud to provide a safe environment for the Iraqi people. You have made great efforts to meet the highest standards“.

Lieutenant General Frank Helmick, Commanding General of the NATO Training Mission – Iraq encouraged the graduates to take responsibility and show leadership, when he said: “Respect your nation and your uniform, be loyal to your country, your comrades and your unit. Be positive, take responsibility and lead from the front“.

The Joint Staff College was re-opened in 2005 as a joint effort between NATO and the Iraqi Ministry of Defence.  Officers of NATO Training Mission – Iraq provide mentoring and advice to the Joint Staff College, in order to assist the Iraqi Security Forces secure an environment of sustained peace. NATO remains committed to supporting the Government of Iraq resume its important place in the international community.