Iranian President Pezeshkian has emphasized the necessity of drafting a comprehensive strategic cooperation program between Iran and Iraq, stating that the expansion of bilateral relations depends on the swift implementation of agreements, the growth of economic and infrastructure cooperation, and the strengthening of security ties.
President Pezeshkian and Iraqi Prime Minister Ali Falih Kadhim al-Zaidi met in Tehran on Thursday to formalize a new era of bilateral relations. The president emphasized that the development of a comprehensive strategic cooperation program serves as the essential roadmap for expanding ties between Tehran and Baghdad across the political, security, and economic sectors.
He also stressed that the security of the two nations is intertwined, noting that instability in one country directly impacts the other. He called for the full implementation of existing security pacts, particularly the clearance of border areas from hostile factions, favoring peaceful, collaborative solutions.
President Pezeshkian hailed Iraqis’ massive attendance at the funeral of the martyred Leader Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei as proof of the deep-rooted historical, cultural, and religious bonds that unite both nations far beyond mere political relations.
The president emphasized the need to accelerate the execution of bilateral memorandums. He highlighted the integration of transportation infrastructure, specifically rail and road networks, as a priority.
By creating a unified transit system, he argued, both nations can drastically expand trade, investment, and port development.
Prime Minister al-Zaidi echoed this focus, noting that his high-level delegation includes key economic ministers specifically mandated to finalize agreements that serve the mutual interests of both nations.
The prime minister also stated that Iraq remains committed to security cooperation and will never permit its territory to be used as a staging ground for threats against Iran. He further noted that the Iraqi people would never forget Iran’s practical support in the fight against terrorist groups.
Furthermore, the two sides highlighted the deep-rooted cultural and religious ties between the two nations, citing the massive Arbaeen pilgrimage as a testament to the brotherhood of their peoples.
President Pezeshkian praised the Iraqi government’s hospitality toward Iranian pilgrims as a symbol of unity that transcends political boundaries.