This post was written by Hatchet reporter Lea Skene.

The ambassador of the Republic of Iraq to the U.S. discussed the similarities in principle between the reconstruction of Iraq and the Arab Spring while speaking at the Jack Morton Auditorium Monday evening.

Despite remaining hostility in the country, the establishment of a democratic constitution and election process has carved new pathways for a more effective government and inspired a wave of similar beliefs across the Middle East, Samir Sumaidaie, said.

“People in the Arab world witnessed Iraq as the first country in that region to go to the polls and elect their leaders,” he said.”That sentiment in my opinion has contributed to the Arab Spring.”

In some cases, he admitted, Iraq has been viewed by Arab Spring nations as “the how-not-to-do country,” emphasizing the risks of allowing segments of society to be alienated.

“We learned some lessons and our neighbors should learn from them as well,” Sumaidaie, who has served as ambassador for more than five years, said.

He also highlighted the importance of continued U.S. support throughout reconstruction, including support from American investors who, he said, will have the opportunity to participate in the growing Iraqi economy.

“There is one thing I know about Iraqis: they are extremely resilient, almost superhumanly resilient,” he said. “I would put my bet on Iraqis pulling through, but not without the help of our friends.”