Hawzah News Agency –Speaking in a telephone conversation with Iraqi Prime Minister Mustafa al-Kadhimi at noon on Saturday, Ayatollah Dr Seyyed Ebrahim Raisi said that the expansion and deepening of relations between the two countries has always been emphasised by the Islamic Republic of Iran, adding, "In the foreign policy of the 13th Administration regarding the expansion of relations with neighbouring and regional countries, Iraq has a privileged position".
The President added, "A strong and comprehensive government and a strong and united society in Iraq have always been emphasised by Iran".
Pointing out that Tehran and Baghdad had a successful experience in dealing with ISIL and Takfiri groups, which could continue in the field of strengthening regional security and stability, Dr Raisi said, "All problems and issues in the region can be resolved provided that transregional powers stop their intervention".
"The problems in the region are the result of the Americans' extravagance, and if they are expelled from the region in a real way, we will see that the countries of the region themselves can fully establish peace, stability and security by working together in the region," he said.
Ayatollah Raisi praised the Iraqi government's efforts to hold talks between Iran and Saudi Arabia and noted, "The Islamic Republic of Iran is ready to continue these talks until a result is reached, provided that the Saudis are willing to continue the talks in an atmosphere of mutual understanding and respect".
Referring to the hardships inflicted on the Yemeni people, the President expressed hope that the Iraqi government would be able to take the lead in a regional initiative to lift the siege and enforce the rights of the Yemeni people.
Iraqi Prime Minister Mustafa al-Kadhimi also said in the phone call that increasing the level of economic exchanges with Iran is very important for Iraq, adding. "Baghdad fully welcomes the policy of expanding Iran's neighbourhood and regional relations and we hope the level of cooperation and relations between the two countries will increase and deepen".