The continuation of Bulgaria’s peacekeeping operation to Iraq is necessary, Iraqi ambassador to Bulgaria Haider al Baraq said.

On February 21 al Baraq met the chair of the parliamentary foreign policy committee Solomon Passi to discuss the extension of the Bulgarian mission in Iraq.

Al Baraq presented the role of international troops in executing the plan for Baghdad’s security, Bulgarian news agency BTA reported.

Iraq is thankful for the Bulgarian aid in restoring order, he said. Further cooperation could be established in economic spheres, al Baraq said.

After several hours of debates Parliament approved the continuation of Bulgaria’s mission. Just like before, Bulgarian troops will be responsible for the security of Ashraf refugee camp.

Bulgaria will send 120 soldiers responsible for the security of the camp and 35 people support staff, Focus news agency reported. The mission will last 12 months.

Bulgarian troops will be under US command. Foreign Minister Ivailo Kalfin said that the mission was relatively risk-free, though some dangers existed.