Tehran: Expanding trade with neighbors, including Iraq, is linked to Iran's security and development and requires centralized decision-making and flexibility in dealing with the neighboring country's regulations, the head of the Iran-Iraq Joint Chamber of Commerce said.

According to Islamic Republic News Agency, Yahya Al-e-Ishagh, speaking at a meeting of Iran's Chamber of Commerce in Kermanshah province, emphasized that trade with regional countries is not only economically important but also directly associated with national interests, security, and development. He highlighted the crucial role economic activists play in this context.

Al-e-Ishagh expressed optimism about reaching the $20 billion target for Iran-Iraq trade, while unofficial estimates currently place the volume of exchanges at around $14-15 billion. He stressed the need for both countries to optimally utilize their existing capacities to boost trade.

The Iran-Iraq Joint Chamber is committed to supporting economic activists in overcoming obstacles and enhancing economic relations between Iran and Iraq, Al-e-Ishagh added.