Baghdad: Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein proposed on Monday holding a joint meeting bringing together Iraq, Iran, and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, in the (6+2) format, on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly meetings. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated that “Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Fuad Hussein met with Ali Larijani, Secretary of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council.”
According to National Iraqi News Agency, during the meeting, bilateral relations between the two countries were discussed. The railway project linking Shalamcheh to Basra was also a focal point, addressing the challenges facing its completion, including the removal of mines and other obstacles. Both sides agreed that relevant authorities would follow up on the issue to find necessary solutions.
The statement further elaborated on discussions to extend the strategic line from the Khosravi area on the Iranian side to Khanaqin and Baghdad, emphasizing its potential impact on strengthening economic relations and stimulating religious tourism. Additionally, they considered the possibility of connecting this line to the development road project in the future.
The meeting also covered developments in the regional and security situation, including the situation in Gaza and the risks posed by the Zionist entity’s occupation of the Strip and attempts to deport its residents to Egyptian territory. Discussions extended to the occupation’s threats to annex the West Bank and their implications for the Arab region, threats directed at Iran, and the ongoing changes in Syria affecting regional stability.
The dialogue underscored the importance of building joint mechanisms for security action at the regional level. It also involved discussions on the UN Secretary-General’s initiative on regional security and the idea of holding a 6+2 meeting, including the six Gulf Cooperation Council countries, in addition to Iraq and Iran, on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly meetings.
Ali Larijani expressed gratitude towards the Foreign Minister for his efforts and positions during the Zionist entity’s war on Iran, appreciating the balanced policy pursued by Iraq in its international relations.