Iran’s Ambassador to Iraq Hassan Danaei-fard says the withdrawal of US forces from Iraq paves the way for further expansion of ties between the two neighboring countries.
During their military occupation of Iraq, US forces made extra efforts to impede any enhancement of Tehran-Baghdad relations, so developing ties among the neighboring states went ahead rather slowly, Danei-fard said on Sunday.
The Iranian envoy, however, emphasized that Tehran spares no effort to expand its relations with Baghdad in all fields.
On Dec 25, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff of Iran’s Armed Forces Major General Hassan Firouzabadi also underlined the willingness of the Islamic Republic to expand military and security collaborations with Iraq.
He stressed that the withdrawal of foreign troops from Iraq was the outcome of firm determination and resistance the Iraqi nation and government displayed against occupation forces.
“We (Iran) hope the US has learned a lesson from its nine-year occupation and humiliating defeat in Iraq and would never think of attacking another country,” the senior Iranian military commander said.
During a meeting with the commander of Iran’s Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) Ground Forces, Brigadier General Mohammad Pakpour in Tehran on November 13, Iraqi Army Chief Lieutenant General Babakir Zebari called for more Tehran-Baghdad military cooperation.
The Iraqi general said that Iraq is facing some security challenges, and Baghdad needs to exchange views with Iran, which is a strong country in many areas, including security.
“The visit aims to develop bilateral relations, since Iran and Iraq are two friendly neighboring countries that should enjoy very close ties… The Islamic Republic of Iran is a capable country in many areas,” Lieutenant General Zebari added.
Brigadier General Pakpour welcomed the suggestion and added that Iran will make every effort to help Iraqis build a secure and safe country.
