Baghdad: Head of the State of Law Coalition, Nouri al-Maliki, affirmed on Thursday that Iraq will not be an arena for settling scores. A statement by his media office indicated that Al-Maliki welcomed the Russian Federation’s Ambassador to Iraq, Elbrus Kotrashev, for a meeting where both parties discussed Russia’s relations with Iraq as well as mutual visits between officials from the two nations.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, the discussions included a review of regional and international developments, with a focus on Syria, Palestine, and Lebanon, alongside the ongoing repercussions of the Russian-Ukrainian war. The statement also mentioned the ongoing negotiations between the Islamic Republic of Iran and the United States of America.

The head of the State of Law Coalition underscored the importance of expanding the horizons of joint cooperation between Iraq and the Russian Federation to benefit both countries. He highlighted the serious challenges facing the Middle East, advocating for joint action and cooperation to ensure security and stability in the region, while insisting that Iraq will not become a platform for settling scores.

In response, the Russian Ambassador commended Iraq’s efforts to reinforce peace in the region and affirmed Moscow’s commitment to maintaining bilateral cooperation aimed at ensuring the security, stability, and prosperity of both nations.