Iraqi FM stresses strengthening of relations with Iran

Baghdad, Aug 29, IRNA- Iraqi Foreign Minister Ibrahim al-Jafari stressed his country's determination to strengthen relations with the Islamic Republic of Iran In a meeting on Wednesday with Iraj Masjedi, Iran's ambassador in Baghdad, Al-Jafari called for further expansion of relations between the two neighboring countries. The Iraqi foreign minister stated during the meeting that the Islamic Republic of Iran's cooperation with Iraq during difficult conditions caused by the fight against terrorism, including ISIS, is unforgettable, which has led to the expansion of relations between the two neighboring countries. Al-Jafari, referring to his official invitation to Iran's Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif to visit Iraq, expressed hope that the visit would help further develop relations between the two countries. Iran's ambassador for his part pointed to the deep historical, political, and economic ties between the two neighboring countries, and thanked the Iraqi government and the people for their success in organizing the Arbaeen rituals last year. He called for more cooperation and coordination of the Iraqi authorities with a view to providing facilities for the Iranian pilgrims who participate in Arbaeen rituals this year. Arbaeen marks the end of 40 days of mourning after Ashoura, the day Imam Hussein, the Prophet Mohammad (PBUH) grandson and third Shia Imam was martyred.