Leader of the Islamic Revolution in Iran Imam Sayyed Ali Khamenei told visiting Iraqi President Abdul Latif Rashid that the US is by no means a friend of Iraq.
In a meeting in Tehran on Saturday, the Leader emphasized that the progress, prosperity, independence, and advancement of Iraq is very important for the Islamic Republic of Iran and that the expansion of bilateral cooperation and the implementation of agreements are in the interest of both countries.
“The Islamic Republic of Iran stands by Iraq and our wish is to see Iraq’s progress,” his eminence added, as quoted by Tasnim news agency.
Imam Khamenei considered it necessary to expand cooperation by dedicatedly following up on the agreements made, especially the recent security and economic agreements, Khamenei.ir reported.
“The deepening of relations between Iran and Iraq has strong enemies, and if there were no strong historical and religious ties between the two countries, perhaps the state of relations would have returned to the situation that existed during Saddam’s time,” he said.
The Leader also praised the Iraqi people for their hospitality in welcoming Iranian pilgrims during the Arbaeen and non-Arbaeen days, despite a history of an eight-year-long war between the two countries.
“The meaning behind such an important phenomenon is that there are unifying factors between these two nations and countries that external political factors cannot influence. Therefore, this opportunity should be used to further deepen our relationship and serious care and vigilance needs to be undertaken for its continuation,” Imam Khamenei emphasized.
During the meeting, also attended by Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi, Iraqi President Abdul Latif Rashid expressed his delight over meeting with the Leader of the Islamic Revolution. He said Iraq enjoys steady and strong relations with the Islamic Republic of Iran in various dimensions and fields.
Rashid pointed to his meetings and discussions with Iranian officials, saying Iraq devotes all its efforts to deepening its bilateral ties with Iran and implementing the remaining issues between the two countries.
The Iraqi president also appreciated the assistance and support of the Iranian government and people for his country in different eras, especially in its fight against terrorism.
Source: Iranian media
