Ashgabat: President Masoud Pezeshkian has stressed the necessity of linking businesses, universities, and industries of Iran and Iraq, saying that joint investment and the expansion of border communications are among priorities.

According to Islamic Republic News Agency, President Pezeshkian announced that special authority has been granted to governors of border provinces to utilize existing capacities to increase trade. He made these remarks during a meeting with his Iraqi counterpart, Abdul Latif Rashid, on the sidelines of the International Conference on Peace and Trust in Ashgabat, Turkmenistan.

President Pezeshkian congratulated Iraq on conducting enthusiastic, healthy, and problem-free elections. He expressed hope that the formation of a strong parliament and government would lead to further growth and development in Iraq. He emphasized Iran’s determination to strengthen and expand relations with Iraq in all fields, highlighting the excellent level of relations between Tehran and Baghdad.

Pezeshkian also underscored the importance of connecting railway lines between the two countries, naming the completion of the Basra-Shalamcheh railway project as one of Iran’s main priorities. He addressed the issue of the Israeli regime, noting its destructive role in the region. Pezeshkian emphasized that the only way to counteract the actions of the Israeli regime is through expanded cooperation, joint investment, and exchanges that bring nations closer together.

The president of Iraq, Abdul Latif Rashid, stated that Iraq considers Iran its most important neighbor, emphasizing that their security is intertwined. Rashid acknowledged Tehran’s constant support for the government and people of Iraq. He highlighted the need for a clear and firm position against the aggressions of the Israeli regime, which, beyond military aggression, obstructs constructive relations between countries in trade and economic fields.