Minister: Iran-Iraq ties never affected by mischievous intervention

Speaking to reporters, the Iranian defense minister thanked Iraqi officials for according a warm welcome and hospitality to him during his stay in the country.

Cultural, religious and historical commonalties have bolstered ties between the two nations, preparing grounds for further expansion of bilateral relations and cooperation, he said.

Iran and Iraq have developed their ties and cooperation in economic, politics, cultural and defense fields and never let such close ties be harmed by mischievous interventions, he said.

During talks with Iraqi officials, the two sides examined grounds for expansion and bolstering of military, defense and security cooperation, Hatami said.

Prospects of Iran-Iraq relations are very promising and Iran feels duty bound to help in reconstructing Iraq, he said.

Close cooperation between Iran, Russia, Syria and Iraq in the fight against terrorism and in restoring security and stability to Iraq and the region is of high importance, he said.

Under any circumstance, Iran backs the Iraqi government and nation because it sees Iraq's unity, development and dignity as its own, he said.
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