A symposium entitled "Iraq and the European Union: Prospects for Partnership and Reconstruction" was held at the headquarters of RCD in Najaf. It was moderated by Dr. Farhad AlaalDin, and attended by: Mr. Ramón Belquois, Ambassador of the European Union in Baghdad, Hendrik van de Field, Ambassador of the Kingdom of Belgium to Iraq, and a number of political and academic elites.

Mr. Ramon said that the tensions between the United States and Iran and their significant impact on the regional level, as well as the internal challenges facing the new government, put the EU in a complicated position in helping Iraq to achieve security and stability. The most important stage that comes after defeating ISIS, is to achieve peace and reconstruction of the country and strengthen the relationship between citizens and government.

He praised the role of the civil society organizations, considering them as the cornerstone for the future of Iraq.

 “ we seek to support political dialogue and consensus because it is one of the most important factors that can help to create beneficial policies for the country” he added . The Ambassador described the "Dialogue" project, which was agreed upon in Najaf in partnership with RCD, as a platform for dialogue for young people to support political dialogues and social initiatives and create an atmosphere of understanding and a new culture of dialogue.

The Belgian ambassador spoke about his country's efforts to support Iraq through their participation in the fighting against ISIS. He said that the city of Najaf can be the center of the new Iraqi renaissance, as it is currently an important center of cultural and political stability in Iraq, expressing his gratitude and happiness to visit the headquarters of RCD.