Baghdad: Iraqi Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein has emphasized the necessity of direct dialogue among regional states to address ongoing challenges, following a meeting with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi in Baghdad on Sunday. The discussions centered on bilateral relations and regional developments.

According to Islamic Republic News Agency, Hussein shared his views in a post on the social media platform X, where he highlighted the importance of dialogue and direct contact between regional countries as fundamental for resolving challenges. He underscored that such engagement is crucial for enhancing security and stability and for promoting a diplomatic approach that benefits regional populations.

At a joint press conference with Araghchi, Hussein expressed Baghdad's strong ties with Iran, describing the relationship as historical, geographical, cultural, religious, economic, and strategic. He warned that continued conflict could devastate the region and reiterated Baghdad's readiness to host talks on regional security and stability.

Araghchi's visit to Baghdad began on Sunday morning, June 28, where he was received by Iraqi officials. He paid homage to martyrs Lt. General Qassem Soleimani and Abu Mahdi al-Muhandis at their assassination site. During the meeting with Hussein, Araghchi discussed several bilateral issues, the imposed war, the diplomatic interactions between Iran and the United States, and broader regional and international developments.

The visit aimed to express gratitude to the Iraqi government and people for their support and solidarity with Iran. Additionally, Araghchi sought to congratulate Iraq's new government and coordinate arrangements for the funeral procession of the martyred Leader of the Islamic Revolution through key Iraqi cities, including Baghdad, Kadhimiya, Karbala, and Najaf. He is scheduled to meet with other Iraqi officials during his stay.