‘Iran set to boost strategic ties with Iraq’

Secretary of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council (SNSC) Saeed Jalili says the Islamic Republic is ready to expand all-out strategic cooperation with Iraq.

Jalili made the remark in a Thursday meeting with Adel Abdul-Mahdi, a member of the Islamic Supreme Council of Iraq (ISCI).

The Iranian official highlighted the significance of expanding public service sectors and consolidating economic infrastructures in Iraq and said, “The Iranian nation and administration are ready to expand cooperation with Iraq at the strategic level in all fields.”

He further expressed optimism regarding the recent provincial council elections in Iraq and said “progress and development in Iraq can be achieved through the unity and participation of all parties and groups.”

Jalili also underlined the need for Iraq to make use of the existing potentials and opportunities at its disposal, saying that the country is now in a good position to solidify its deserved place among Arab and Islamic countries.

Abdul-Mahdi, for his part, highlighted Iran’s role and position in resolving regional issues.

He described Tehran-Baghdad ties as excellent and friendly and said that Baghdad was keen to use Iran’s experiences in the path toward progress.