Iran, Iraq stress importance of cooperation in combatting terrorism
Iran's Defense Minister vows to assist the Iraqi Ministry of Interior in ensuring the country's security by providing military and police equipment.
Iran's Defense Minister vowed to support the Iraqi Ministry of Interior in ensuring security in the Arab country by providing military and police equipment.
In a meeting with Iraqi Interior Minister Othman Al-Ghanimi, Iranian Defense Minister Brigadier General Mohammad Reza Ashtiani highlighted the Islamic Republic’s experience in the fight against terrorism.
Ashtiani stated that the Iranian Defense Ministry's ability to design and manufacture all equipment and gear utilized by the military and police forces makes such products extremely suitable for the operations carried out by the Iraqi Interior Ministry, especially against terrorism.
According to the Defense Minister, Iranian military products can assist in maintaining security throughout Iraq.
Read next: Iran, Iraq FMs meet in Tehran
The Iranian general also stated that Iran's policy toward Iraq is based on three principles: support for the neighboring country's unity and integrity, contribution to its stability and security, and collaboration in the Arab country's growth and prosperity.
In light of Iran and Iraq's precarious situation in the West Asia region, the Defense Minister warned that the West and the hegemony have used terrorism as a tool to justify their presence in the region, foment division among nations, and degrade the Islamic community's capacity.
“We believe that the countries in the region and West Asia should manage regional security, as achieving stability and peace will be impossible as long as extra-regional forces are present in this region,” Ashtiani stated.
Read next: Iran, Saudi discuss security, agree on MoU: Iraqi FM
On his part, Iraq's Interior Minister praised Iran's aid in the fight against terrorism.
Ghanimi emphasized the importance of constant cooperation between Tehran and Baghdad in all domains, saying such engagement will substantially benefit Iraq in a variety of sectors, including security and economic prosperity.
The Iranian military officials have on various occasions expressed readiness to strengthen Iraq’s defense power and supply its demands for military equipment.