Masum, Velayati Discuss Bilateral Relations Between Iraq And Iran

BAGHDAD, Iraq (NINA) - President Fuad Masum discussed with Ali Akbar Velayati the advisor of Supreme Leader in Iran bilateral relations. During his meeting with Velayati , according to a presidential statement, President Masum stressed the need to develop and expand the relations in various fields in a way that guarantees the highest interests of the peoples of the two friendly countries. The President praised the continuing support, provided and still provides by Iran to the Iraqi people at all times, adding: "we do not forget the support positions of Iran for the Iraqis in all their communities, especially in times of distress." Masum expressed his condolences to the victims of the Iranian civil plane which crashed today, leaving a number of civilian victims, wishing patience and solace to the victims' families. For his part, Velayati stressed the importance of consolidating the framework of constructive cooperation between the two friendly countries and working to develop the strategic relations between the two friendly peoples in all fields, reiterating the Islamic Republic's support for Iraq in providing stability and reconstruction and deepening unity and harmony among all. He also expressed his gratitude to President Masum for the good reception, praising his role in bringing the views of the various parties closer together in order to consolidate the unity of the common destiny of all the Iraqi people./ End