US No Friend of Iraq, Not Even Loyal to Europe, Ayatollah Khamenei Warns

President of Iraq Abdul Latif Rashid and his accompanying delegation met with Ayatollah Khamenei in Tehran on Saturday.

In this meeting, the Leader emphasized that the progress, prosperity, independence, and advancement of Iraq is very important for the Islamic Republic of Iran and that the expansion of bilateral cooperation and the implementation of agreements are in the interest of both countries.

"The Islamic Republic of Iran stands by Iraq and our wish is to see Iraq’s progress," he added.

The Leader considered it necessary to expand cooperation by dedicatedly following up on the agreements made, especially the recent security and economic agreements, Khamenei.ir reported.

“The expansion and deepening of relations between Iran and Iraq has strong enemies, and if there were no strong historical and religious ties between the two countries, perhaps the state of relations would have returned to the situation that existed during Saddam's time,” he said.

Ayatollah Khamenei also praised the Iraqi people for their hospitality in welcoming Iranian pilgrims during the Arbaeen and non-Arbaeen days, despite a history of an eight-year-long war between the two countries.

"The meaning behind such an important phenomenon is that there are unifying factors between these two nations and countries that external political factors cannot influence. Therefore, this opportunity should be used to further deepen our relationship and serious care and vigilance needs to be undertaken for its continuation," he emphasized.

Ayatollah Khamenei expressed his satisfaction with the current state of the Iraqi government and administration and called it the product of the unity of the Iraqi people and groups. He said Iraq has good figures and thoughts as well as motivated and lively youths, and such national wealth should be tapped to preserve the unity.

The Leader asserted that the Americans are not Iraq’s friends, adding, “The US is not Iraq’s friend. The US is not anyone’s friend. They are not even loyal to their European friends. The presence of even one single American in Iraq is too much."

During the meeting, also attended by President Raisi, Iraqi President Abdul Latif Rashid expressed his delight over meeting with the Leader of the Islamic Revolution. He said Iraq enjoys steady and strong relations with the Islamic Republic of Iran in various dimensions and fields.

He pointed to his meetings and discussions with Iranian officials, saying Iraq devotes all its efforts to deepening its bilateral ties with Iran and implementing the remaining issues between the two countries.

The Iraqi president also appreciated the assistance and support of the Iranian government and people for his country in different eras, especially in its fight against terrorism.