Baghdad, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Fouad Hussein, received today, Tuesday, at the Ministry's headquarters in Baghdad, the Ambassador of the Lebanese Republic, Ali Al-Habhab. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated in a statement, that: "During the meeting, the developments in the Palestinian and Lebanese arenas were discussed and exchanged views on them, with a focus on their impact on the regional and international situations." The Minister referred to the tripartite initiative to cease fire in Gaza, expressing his hope for its success, and stressed the continuation of cooperation and coordination between the two countries, stressing the depth of bilateral relations and the need for Iraq and Lebanon for more security and stability. He expressed Iraq's position rejecting war, and the necessity of controlling the prevailing state of tension. The meeting also discussed economic and investment relations and cooperation at various levels. The Lebanese Ambassador pointed out that t here are about 900 Lebanese companies operating in Iraq, including 600 companies in Baghdad and 300 in the Kurdistan Region, providing their services in various sectors. At the end of the meeting, the Ambassador expressed his thanks and appreciation for the fraternal positions of the Iraqi government towards the Lebanese people. Source: National Iraqi News Agency