Iran’s FM Highlights President Pezeshkian’s First Official Visit to Iraq

Tehran, The Gulf Observer: Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has emphasized the significance of President Masoud Pezeshkian’s decision to make Iraq the destination of his first official foreign visit since taking office. In a televised interview with Iraq’s Al Forat Television Network on Tuesday, Araghchi described this choice as a reflection of the deep fraternal relations between the two neighboring countries.

During the interview, Araghchi underscored the historical and cultural bonds that unite Iran and Iraq, stating that the selection of Iraq as the first country on Pezeshkian’s itinerary “demonstrates the strong brotherly ties between the two countries.” The president’s visit is set to include stops in Baghdad, Basra, Erbil, Najaf, and Karbala, key cities that highlight the importance of both diplomatic and cultural cooperation.

Araghchi also praised Iraq’s continued efforts in combatting groups that pose security threats to Iran from Iraqi territory. He highlighted the ongoing consultation between Tehran and Baghdad to ensure the successful implementation of the security agreement signed between the two nations in 2021. “We are constantly working together to control the borders and confront saboteur groups that threaten the stability of both countries,” Araghchi noted.

In addition to security cooperation, Araghchi lauded Iraq’s role as a mediator in regional diplomacy. He acknowledged Baghdad’s efforts in hosting multiple rounds of dialogue between Iran and Saudi Arabia, aimed at reducing tensions across the region. “Iraq has hosted five rounds of talks between Iran and Saudi Arabia, which reflects its critical role in fostering peace and stability,” the foreign minister stated.

He further stressed Iran’s commitment to supporting Iraq’s economic and political development, expressing Tehran’s readiness to back any projects that contribute to Iraq’s prosperity. “We want Iraq to thrive as a prosperous and strong neighbor, and any economic initiatives working towards that goal will have Iran’s full support,” Araghchi concluded.

President Pezeshkian’s visit is expected to further strengthen the already robust ties between the two nations, paving the way for enhanced cooperation in various sectors.