ERBIL, Kurdistan Region - Iraqi President Abdul Latif Rashid on Friday had a phone call with his Iranian counterpart Masoud Pezeshkian discussing regional security and cooperation between their countries as Tehran begins nuclear talks with the United States.
The two spoke about “the bilateral relationship between the two countries and the development of cooperative actions in various fields of mutual interest. Their discussions focused on how to serve the interests of both nations and ensure stability and security in the region,” according to a statement from the Iraqi presidency.
They agreed on efforts to enhance coordination in dealing with regional and international partners, “with a focus on reducing tensions in the region,” read the statement.
Pezeshkian suggested they meet in the near future “to discuss strategies for strengthening unity and expanding cooperation aimed at enhancing the welfare, tranquility, and development of both Iranians and Iraqis, as well as other regional nations,” according to a statement from his office.
Iran and Iraq have shared a strong relationship since the fall of Saddam Hussein in 2003. Tehran has increased its influence over Baghdad and the country has dozens of armed groups who are affiliated with the Shiite rule in Tehran.
The neighbours signed a security pact in March 2023 that saw Baghdad agree to disarm Kurdish opposition groups and secure the border regions. Iran had threatened to use military action if Baghdad failed to fulfill the agreement.
Iraq, which wants to avoid being a battleground for other nations, has in the past tried to mediate between Iran and the United States who will begin indirect nuclear talks in Oman on Saturday.
