Tehran, Baghdad to Increase Bilateral Trade Value to $20bn

Iranian President Hassan Rouhani says Tehran and Baghdad are determined to raise the value of their bilateral trade to $20 billion per year, from the current $12 billion.

President Rouhani on Saturday stressed the significance of political and economic ties between the two neighbours, saying they had agreed on closer cooperation in energy, oil and environment sectors.

Rouhani made the comments during a joint press conference with his Iraqi counterpart Barham Salih held in Tehran.

He said railway development aimed at making the march of Arba’een easier for Iranian pilgrims was one of the issues raised in his discussions with President Salih.

The Iranian president also referred to the dust pollution in south-western Iran, which originates from the Iraqi territory, and said Salih promised to personally pursue the issue. He expressed hope that the two sides can get rid of the dust problem through joint efforts.

He went on to say that Iran-Iraq ties are of great historical, cultural, and regional importance underlining that the history of mutual cooperation goes back to more than 30 years ago.

Iranian and Iraqi presidents also emphasised the importance of regional security and stability.

The Iranian president highlighted the importance of establishing peace and security in Yemen and Syria, saying that regional stability will benefit all Mideast countries.

Salih, for his part, said the people of Iraq understand the importance of bilateral ties with Iran and will not forget Tehran’s help in their fight against terrorism.

Salih arrived in Tehran on Saturday as his first official visit to the country since assuming office last month.

Several high-ranking officials have accompanied Salih on this trip. Salih is set to meet other top Iranian officials to discuss regional and bilateral issues.

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