Tehran: The Head of the Border Ports Authority, Lieutenant General Omar Al-Waeli, discussed with Iranian Interior Minister Eskandar Momeni in Tehran on Monday ways to enhance bilateral cooperation and develop work at the joint border crossings between the two countries.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, Al-Waeli stressed that “the discussions focused on two main axes: enhancing border security, combating organized crime, and facilitating the movement of passengers and goods to serve the economic interests of the two neighboring peoples.”

He explained, “The importance of this ongoing coordination in confronting common challenges, especially combating drug smuggling and illegal crossings, which pose a threat to the security and stability of both countries.” He noted the Republic of Iraq’s aspiration to “enhance practical cooperation that positively impacts the movement of citizens and trade, while maintaining the highest standards of security and sovereignty.”

For his part, the Minister expressed the gratitude and appreciation of the Iranian people and government to the Republic of Iraq, both government and people, for the warm welcome and generous hospitality accorded to Iranian pilgrims on the Arbaeen of Imam Hussein (peace be upon him).

In a related context, the Iranian Interior Minister praised the joint minutes of the meetings of the Fifth Border Crossings Committee held in Tehran, stressing the need to work to preserve the safety and sovereignty of both countries, based on the interconnectedness of trade, security, and economic relations.