Baghdad: President Abdul Latif Jamal Rashid on Tuesday emphasized the importance of strengthening security cooperation with the United States within the framework of a long-term strategic partnership. The Presidency said in a statement that Rashid received at Al-Salam Palace the former Director of the Central Intelligence Agency, former Commander of the International Coalition Forces in Iraq, General David Petraeus, and his accompanying delegation.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, during the meeting, the two sides discussed bilateral relations between Baghdad and Washington, as well as the latest regional and international developments. Rashid stressed the need to enhance security cooperation between the two countries, praising the role of the United States and the International Coalition Forces in supporting Iraq during its fight against terrorism. He pointed out that the stable security situation has allowed the government to focus on improving public services, rehabilitating infrastructure, and implementing strategic projects that contribute to achieving sustainable development.

For his part, Petraeus expressed his appreciation for the President's efforts in unifying political visions to strengthen stability, commending the progress Iraq has made on the security and political levels. He also reaffirmed his country's continued support for Iraq in various fields.