Prime Minister: Iraq-Iran security connected to each other

Baghdad, May 18, IRNA – Prime Minister of Iraq said on Monday that Iraq and Iran security connected to each other. Haider al-Abadi made the remarks in a meeting with Iranian Minister of Defence and Logistics of the Armed Forces Brigadier General Hossein Dehqan. The Iraqi prime minister said that the Iraqi government enjoys Iran's defense assistance to Iraq to create stability and security in Iraq and fight terrorism. Al-Abadi appreciated support of the Supreme Leader, President Rouhani and Iran's government and nation in campaign against terrorism and assessed the bilateral relations very deep. He said that enemies attempted to damage Iraqi historical relations with Iran by imposing 8-year war, but Iran and Iraq by their common history and cultural affinity are standing against Daesh. Al-Abadi said that Iraq does not support military aggression on Yemen and believes that the aggression should end by efforts of all Islamic countries. He condemned the efforts made by the Israeli regime to defeat nuclear talks between Iran and Group 5+1. He expressed hope that Iran would be successful in the nuclear talks and said that the comprehensive agreement would be beneficial for all. The premier underlined expansion of all-out cooperation with Iran and said that development of defensive-security cooperation with Tehran is among priorities of Iraqi government. Brigadier-General Dehqan said that since beginning of invasion of Daesh (ISIS) Iran was standing by Iraqi government and nation and will stay with them. He conveyed warm greetings of first Vice-President to the Iraqi premier and said that ties between the two countries are at an excellent level. Dehqan added that Iran's Supreme Leader, government and nation support Iraq territorial integrity with full security and tranquility. He said that the Islamic Republic of Iran supports unity and all-out security and economic development and progress of Iraq aa the three strategic principles. Iran's Defense Minister appreciated positive and constructive role of Iraqi premier in all-out cooperation between the two countries , especially security and defensive cooperation and declared Tehran's readiness for development of such cooperation and strengthening and equipping the Iraq armed forces.