UNITAR and UNDP Iraq are implementing a two week training course for diplomats and staff of the Iraqi Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The course aims to contribute to efforts by the United Nations to assist the Foreign Ministry's Ad Hoc Support Mechanism, established in connection with the Expanded Ministerial Conference of Neighboring Countries under Security Council resolution 1770. Thirty diplomats are taking part in the course, which focuses on developing knowledge and core skills in multilateral and regional diplomacy.