Russia: Iraq Is A Strategic Ally In The Middle East And Can Rely On Us

BAGHDAD (NINA) 29, March - Russia said Iraq could rely on Russia as a strategic ally in the Middle East. "Foreign Minister Ibrahim al-Jaafari met Russian President Vladimir Putin's envoy to the Middle East and North Africa Mikhail Bogdanov on the sidelines of the Arab summit meetings in the Dead Sea in the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan," the foreign ministry statement said. " The two sides discussed the efforts exerted in facing the terrorist gangs, the great victories achieved by the Iraqis in their war against terrorism, the international support provided by the friendly countries, and the overall situation in the region and the world. " During the meeting, Bogdanov confirmed Russian support in the war against terrorism, stressing that Iraq can rely on Russia, which looks at Iraq as a strategic ally in the Middle East, and the time has come for holding the meeting of the Iraqi-Russian Joint Commission in Moscow to increase prospects that will enhance cooperation in all areas. " For his part, Foreign Minister Ibrahim al-Jaafari said: "The Iraqis are liberating their lands, and inflicting Daesh great losses and they are pursuing them from one city to another with their concern for the lives of civilians who are being used by terrorists as human shields to obstruct the progress of the Iraqi armed forces. Adding that Russia could play great role In the reconstruction of the infrastructure of Iraqi cities after the elimination of terrorist gangs. Jaafari added, "Iraq is a rich country with many resources, but is going through exceptional circumstances such as the security challenge, the economic challenge, the decline of the oil prices and the cost of the war against terrorism," Jaafari said that Iraq is looking for the friendly countries to stand by Iraq in building the cities and the return of the displaced to their areas, stressing on economic exchange, investment, activate common interests, and face common dangers that will strengthen relations between Baghdad and Moscow./ End