Tehran: Iraq and Iran have declared the enhancement of their bilateral relations across political, economic, security, cultural, scientific, technological, and infrastructural domains as a strategic necessity. This development aims to serve the higher interests of both the Islamic Republic of Iran and Iraq.
According to National Iraqi News Agency, this affirmation came through a joint statement following Prime Minister Ali Faleh al-Zaidi's visit to Tehran. Both nations emphasized their mutual political will to elevate bilateral cooperation, aspiring to establish their relationship as a model for regional cooperation, characterized by mutual respect, shared interests, and good neighborliness.
The statement highlighted that Prime Minister al-Zaidi, responding to an official invitation, visited Iran at the helm of a high-level delegation, which included senior political, security, and economic officials. During his visit, the Prime Minister engaged in discussions with the President of Iran and other senior officials, focusing on bilateral relations, regional developments, and international issues of shared interest. These discussions occurred in an atmosphere of mutual trust and good neighborliness, underlining both countries' commitment to fostering strategic cooperation.
The leaders of Iraq and Iran agreed to draft a comprehensive strategic document to broaden and institutionalize cooperation across various areas. This document will be prepared by the foreign ministers of both countries, who will coordinate its finalization and submit it for signing and implementation by senior officials.
Both nations reiterated the significance of their deep-rooted fraternal ties and shared values, recognizing the strategic necessity of developing political, economic, security, cultural, scientific, technological, infrastructural, and people-to-people relations. They agreed to make their relationship a regional cooperation model.
To facilitate the implementation of agreements and deepen strategic cooperation, Iraq and Iran decided to hold the Joint High Committee meetings annually, alternating between their respective capitals. This initiative aims to further develop and strengthen bilateral relations.
During the visit, Iran expressed gratitude to Iraq for its solidarity and participation in the funeral procession of Ayatollah Khamenei, emphasizing the historical significance of this event in reinforcing solidarity between the two nations.
In the economic sphere, both countries acknowledged their significant potential and agreed to expedite projects like the Basra-Shalamcheh railway and enhance trade and investment. They also committed to improving cooperation in energy, transportation, industry, agriculture, and technical services while removing obstacles to encourage public and private sector participation.
The statement also highlighted their commitment to implementing existing agreements and memoranda of understanding swiftly and fully.
Recognizing environmental challenges, both sides agreed to expand scientific and practical cooperation in areas such as biodiversity conservation, water management, and modern environmental technologies. They also planned to set up joint mechanisms to tackle environmental crises and implement sustainable development programs.
In regional security, Iraq and Iran reviewed regional developments and agreed on the need for continuous bilateral and multilateral consultations to maintain regional security and stability. They emphasized strengthening security cooperation and combating terrorism, extremism, and organized crime.
Culturally, both nations recognized the importance of strengthening cooperation in cultural, academic, media, tourism, and religious pilgrimage fields. They view the consolidation of cultural relations as a fundamental pillar for establishing long-term strategic relations.
Iraq and Iran reaffirmed their commitment to strategic dialogue, full implementation of agreements, and expanding cooperation to enhance regional stability, security, and prosperity. They emphasized resolving regional crises through dialogue and diplomacy, respecting state sovereignty, and rejecting foreign interference.
Lastly, both countries reiterated their support for the Palestinian cause, advocating for the establishment of a Palestinian state with Jerusalem as its capital.