Iran-Iraq Ties to Remain Strategic: Official

“The relations between Tehran and Baghdad remain strategic and long-lasting,” Amir Abdollahian said in a post on social media on Wednesday.  

“We stand with our allies in the region and will continue our constructive efforts until the region achieves security, stability, collective welfare, and sustainable development,” he stated in his post.

The remarks came as Iranian President Hassan Rouhani, heading a high-ranking delegation, visited Iraq at the official invitation of the Iraqi government. It was Rouhani’s first official visit to the Arab country during his tenure.

Rouhani, who started his official visit on Monday, held meetings with Iraqi President Barham Salih, Prime Minister Adil Abdul-Mahdi, Speaker of the Iraqi Parliament Mohamed al-Halbousi, and many other prominent figures.

In a joint statement on Tuesday, Iran and Iraq said they discussed regional issues, common challenges, fight against terrorism and ways to promote security, stability and economic cooperation in the region in line with the interests of its nations.

According to the statement, the two sides emphasized the need for the establishment of security in the Middle East as a contributing factor to the region’s economic growth and development.

It added that Iran and Iraq also expressed their firm determination to battle terrorism and organized crimes, which pose a threat to regional security and peace, calling for collective cooperation to uproot terrorism in all political, intellectual and financial aspects.

The two sides said they held important talks in a cordial and constructive atmosphere and expressed their willingness to enhance relations in various spheres, including politics, security, economy, healthcare, trade, culture, science and technology.