Iraq, Saudi Agree To Establish A Coordination Council To Upgrade Relations Between Them To The Desired Strategic Level

BAGHDAD, Iraq (NINA) - Iraq and Saudi Arabia have agreed to establish a coordination council to boost relations to the desired strategic level. "They are determined to continue their successful efforts to combat terrorist organizations, especially Daesh organization, which has been involved in the criminal activities in the two countries," the two countries said in a joint statement following Prime Minister Haider Abadi's visit to Saudi Arabia. The two sides discussed the current situation and the political and security challenges confronting the Arab and Islamic nations. It was agreed to intensify joint action to confront these challenges, particularly combating extremism and combating terrorism in all its forms. The two sides stressed the importance of drying up the sources of terrorism and financing it, and abide by the conventions and commitments that bind States in this regard. The two countries affirmed their condemnation of all actions affecting the security and stability of both countries and the region, stressing the necessity of rejecting the spirit of hatred, violence, sectarian discrimination and sectarian strife, confirming their keenness to strengthen their brotherly relations to achieve their common interests for the good of the two brotherly peoples. The two countries agreed to establish a coordination council between them to upgrade the relations to the desired strategic level and to open new horizons of cooperation in various fields, including political, security, economic, developmental, commercial, investment, tourism and cultural and activating the partnership between the private sector in both countries and follow up the implementation of the agreements and memorandums of understanding to achieve common goals. Prime Minister Haidar al-Abadi expressed the Iraqi government's appreciation to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for its support for the efforts exerted in the reconstruction of Iraq. The statement also said that "Abadi praised the work of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques and the Government of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for the care of the two holy mosques and to serve their pilgrims and visitors." Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi expressed his sincere thanks and appreciation for the hospitality extended to him and the accompanying delegation. "/ End