The Spanish contingent at Union III Base in Baghdad receives recognition from the Atlantic Alliance

• Awarding of decorations for the work carried out by Spanish military personnel within the framework of the NATO Mission Iraq (NMI)

The Union II Base in Baghdad hosted the ceremony to award the NATO Medal to the Spanish contingent personnel in recognition of their service for peace and security in Iraq. The ceremony was presided over by the commander of NATO Mission Iraq (NMI), Major General Christophe Hintzy, and Brigadier General Pedro Sebastián de Erice Llano, Chief of Defence of NMI and of the Spanish contingent deployed in Iraq.

This ceremony highlights the work carried out by Spanish military personnel within the framework of NMI, a non-executive mission focused on institutional advice and capacity building for the Iraqi defence system, in coordination with national authorities.

During the medal ceremony, General Sebastián de Erice addressed the decorated personnel, saying, ‘I would like to highlight the spirit of service, professionalism and camaraderie you have shown during these demanding months of service to build a more peaceful and stable future for Iraq.’ At this ceremony, the Spanish military personnel were accompanied by military representatives from several NATO member countries integrated in NMI, as well as civilian personnel.

Spain’s participation in Iraq

Spain participates in the two international missions deployed in Iraq: the NATO Mission in Iraq (NMI) and Operation Inherent Resolve, led by the International Coalition to Fight Daesh, where Spain participates with the special operations group (SOTG XXII).

The NATO mission in Iraq aims to help strengthen Iraqi security forces and military education institutions by training and advising defence and security officials from the Ministry of Defence, the Office of the National Security Adviser, and military schools and institutions. NMI fully integrates civilian and military personnel, with the aim of multiplying the effectiveness of NATO's efforts and maximising cooperation with other entities on the ground. Currently, the Spanish contingent provides the most personnel to NMI.