“We are here to show our resolve to implement the agreements and expand bilateral ties and help resolve the security challenges and crises through synergy and reinvigoration of active resistance,” Dehqan said at the meeting with Iraqi Defense Minister Brigadier General Khaled al-Obeidi.
Stressing Iran's interest in the further development of relations and cooperation with the Iraqi government in different aspects, specially defense and security fields, he said, "The regional conditions, including intensified crises and insecurity at the common security environment of Iran and Iraq, have made close defense cooperation between the two countries inevitable."
Dehqan described Iran-Iraq defense and security cooperation and joint campaign against terrorism as a component of security in the region, and said, “Iran has stood beside the Iraqi nation and government with all its power and without any expectation.”
He expressed the hope that during his trip, in addition to bolstering defense cooperation, long strides would be taken to fully annihilate the terrorist-Zionist-Takfiri cells as the main elements of insecurity in the region.
Al-Obeidi, for his part, underlined unity between Iran and Iraq, and said, "Certainly, development of cooperation between the two countries will make us successful and capable for overcoming the challenges."
He appreciated Tehran for its assistance and aide, and said, “We seriously need the Islamic Republic of Iran's support and assistance, especially at this sensitive juncture, and we hope that we can win over the enemies of Iraq through cooperation with Iran.”
Iran and Iraq have enjoyed growing ties ever since the overthrow of the former Iraqi President, Saddam Hussein, during the 2003 US invasion of Iraq.
In relevant remarks in November, Iraqi Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi lauded Iran for its support and assistance to Baghdad in fighting terrorism, and said he would never be coaxed into destroying or undermining relations with Iran for some short-term benefits.
“I will not spoil my ties with Iran for the sake of certain sides. At present we are facing a life and death battle and Iran has stood beside us in this war,” Abadi said in an interview with al-Mayadeen news channel.
Source: FNA; Photo: IRNA
