Baghdad: President Abdul Latif Jamal Rashid reaffirmed Iraq’s commitment to building balanced partnerships based on mutual respect and joint cooperation with various countries, stressing the importance of strengthening bilateral relations in a way that serves common interests.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, a statement by the Presidency detailed that Rashid received, on Sunday, at Al-Salam Palace in Baghdad, Malaysian Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Rural and Regional Development Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, and his accompanying delegation. The discussions between the two sides focused on enhancing cooperation between Iraq and Malaysia in various fields, along with coordinating positions on regional and international issues of mutual concern.

The President acknowledged Malaysia’s supportive stance on the Palestinian cause, urging intensified Arab, Islamic, and international efforts to end the aggression against Gaza, alleviate the suffering of its people, deliver humanitarian aid, and improve the health sector in the Strip.

For his part, Hamidi conveyed the greetings and appreciation of the Malaysian leadership to President Rashid, expressing Malaysia’s pride in its relations with Iraq and its sincere desire to expand cooperation to benefit the two friendly peoples.