Strong, stable Iraq important: Larijani

Iran Majlis Speaker Ali Larijani has stressed the importance of bolstering Iran’s relations with Iraq, saying the existence of a strong and stable neighboring country is important for the Islamic Republic.
In a meeting with head of the National Iraqi Alliance Ibrahim al-Jaafari in Tehran on Tuesday, Larijani said, “Enemies of the Iranian and Iraqi nations are against their close relations as well as Iraq’s economic growth and welfare”.
The top Iranian parliamentarian added, “It is necessary that the two brother and neighboring countries move to further increase their ties and cooperation”.
He stated that Iran and Iraq enjoy religious, cultural and geographical commonalties, noting that common interests and concerns have prepared the ground for more consultation and cooperation between the two countries.
Larijani further pointed to the latest developments in the region, particularly the crisis in Syria, saying that sending terrorists and weapons to the Arab country will only exacerbate regional instability.
Jaafari, for his part, emphasized the significance of his country’s ties with Iran and said Tehran has always played a constructive role in the establishment of stability and peace in Iraq.
He added, Iran and Iraq should boost consultation and cooperation with the purpose of improving regional peace and stability.