Nuri Maliki: Iran, Iraq Deeply Eager to Expand Ties

A02859902.jpgIraqi Prime Minister Nuri al-Maliki underlined eagerness of Tehran and Baghdad to further expand ties, saying that his visit to Tehran was aimed at implementation of the agreements already held by the two sides. Speaking to reporters during a joint press conference with Iranian first Vice-President Parviz Davoudi here in Tehran on Thursday, Nuri al-Maliki said that that his trip to Iran was a result of the two countries’ enthusiasm for further expansion of ties.

“And due o the same reason, these visits could be much fruitful,” he continued.

The Iraqi premier further pointed to the two countries’ ample commonalities, and said, “Considering that both countries are facing common challenges, they should make joint efforts to materialize their cause and ideals, common goals and joint interests.”

“Not only this trip, but also other visits were aimed at a settlement of issues,” he said, adding, “One of the crucial issues for the two countries was security challenges. Both countries are striving to reach a conclusion about security challenges; there are, of course, other countries which share our views about confrontation with these challenges in the region.”

The Iraqi prime minister also said that during his visit to Tehran, he has discussed Tehran-Baghdad economic and trade ties with the Iranian officials, and further voiced pleasure in what he described as “very effective results” of the said discussions.

“During this visit, the two sides studied the problems and impediments to the implementation of the agreements (already held by the two countries),” he said.

“During our meetings, we fully felt that Iran is eager and fully ready to enhance the two countries’ economic relations to a considerable level,” the Iraqi premier added.

The Iraqi prime minister left Tehran for the northeastern city of Mashhad early Thursday afternoon.

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