Canada Transfers Command of NATO Mission Iraq to Denmark

Canada has played a pivotal roll in the security and training of Iraqi security services and is a key member of NATO

Major-General Jennie Carignan of the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF), transferred command of NATO Mission Iraq (NMI) to Lieutenant-General Per Pugholm Olsen of the Danish Armed Forces, during a ceremony held in Baghdad, Iraq.

Major-General Carignan assumed command of NMI in November 2019, marking the beginning of a second year of Canadian leadership. In collaboration with Allies, partner nations and international stakeholders, NMI has helped strengthen Iraqi security forces and Iraqi military education institutions in order to prevent the return of Da’esh, and establish regional stability.

“ I am very proud of the professional work Canadian Armed Forces members have put into this mission. They have proven their value by their innate understanding and respect for the local culture, which makes them especially suitable for this kind of endeavor.” Major-General Jennie Carignan, Outgoing Commander, NATO Mission Iraq

The CAF is handing over command of a well-established organization, poised for continued success. Alongside our Danish and international counterparts, Canada will continue to contribute to the advancement of the mission’s objectives, and more broadly, to the advancement of security and stability of the Middle East region. Canada’s commitment to the mission remains steadfast.

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