Sports cooperation between Iraq and Latin American countries 1972-1982 (Brazil and Cuba as a model)

Abstract

International relations have become of great importance in historical studies due to their impact on global political events. Furthermore, the contribution of bilateral relations between countries to achieving economic and cultural cooperation has led Iraq to open up to the world, particularly after the 1968 coup. This has contributed to strengthening its Arab, regional, and international standing. Iraq's international relations with countries around the world, especially with Latin American countries, have occupied a prominent place in its foreign policy, particularly in the area of ​​cultural cooperation. Hence, Iraq aspired to build distinguished and advanced relations with Brazil and Cuba, especially after the development of political and economic relations between both countries and Iraq.

     The research focused on aspects of sports cooperation between Iraq and both Brazil and Cuba by tracking joint sporting activities, exchange of delegations, organization of tournaments and friendly matches, as well as the agreements and protocols that regulated this cooperation. The research also highlights the role of official institutions and bodies in managing external sports activity. These efforts have contributed to developing bilateral relations and adding an active cultural dimension to them. The research emphasizes the importance of including the sporting dimension in studies of the history of international relations, given the deeper understanding it provides of cultural and political interactions between countries.