Baghdad: The Head of the State of Law Coalition, Nouri al-Maliki, affirmed Iraq’s keenness to strengthen its relations with its Arab surroundings. Al-Maliki made these remarks during a meeting with the new Egyptian Ambassador to Iraq, Ahmed Hussein Khafaji, at his office.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, Al-Maliki and Ambassador Khafaji discussed several issues of mutual interest, including the latest political and security developments in Iraq and the region. They explored ways to expand Iraqi-Egyptian cooperation in political, economic, cultural, and developmental fields.

Al-Maliki emphasized the depth of the historical and fraternal relations uniting Iraq and Egypt. He noted that Iraq views Egypt as the “big brother of Arab nations,” acknowledging the significant historical, political, and diplomatic influence Egypt holds in the region.

Expressing hope for further development of relations between the two countries, Al-Maliki highlighted Egypt’s potential to regain its active role in Arab affairs. He pointed out that Iraq is eager to strengthen its relations with its Arab surroundings and sees Egypt as playing a crucial role in supporting stability and Arab rapprochement.

Al-Maliki further remarked that Iraqis hold Egypt in high regard, with the bonds between the two peoples extending beyond official relations to a shared historical and civilizational depth.

In response, the Egyptian Ambassador conveyed his country’s eagerness to bolster relations with Iraq and expand the horizons of joint cooperation. He emphasized the importance of continued communication and coordination between the two nations to serve the interests of both brotherly peoples and enhance security and stability in the region.