Imam Ali Khamenei Underscores Importance of Ties with Iraq

The Leader of Islamic Ummah and Oppressed People Imam Seyed Ali Khamenei in a meeting with Iraqi Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki stressed that strong relations with Baghdad is of high importance to Tehran.

During the meeting in Tehran on Thursday, Imam Khamenei said that the grounds are fully prepared for the expansion of Iran-Iraq all-out relations and that there is no barrier hindering boost in regional cooperation.

Expansion of political and economic cooperation between the two sides is of prime importance, Imam Khamenei said.

The Islamic Republic of Iran has witnessed significant scientific progress in recent years and can transfer its invaluable experiences to Iraq to further bolster ties, he added.

Describing the performance of the Iraqi government as positive, the Supreme Leader called for further efforts to develop the country.

He also referred to Iraqi President Jalal Talabani as Iran’s good and sincere friend and whished success and prosperity for him.

Maliki, for his part, appreciated efforts made by the Iranian government, and expressed the hope that his discussions and agreements reached between the two sides during his Tehran visit would help further boost in all-out bilateral relations.

The Iraqi prime minister arrived in Tehran at the head of a high-ranking delegation on Wednesday and was warmly welcomed by the Iranian first vice-president.

During his stay, the Iraqi prime minister exchanged views over the latest regional and international developments with senior Iranian officials and discussed ways to strengthen the bilateral ties between Tehran and Baghdad in all spheres.