Iraqi Kurdistan's Barzani vows support for Iran-Iraq security pact

By Al Mayadeen English
Source: News websites
11 Sep 2023 23:38

The president of Iraq's Kurdistan region stressed the importance of relations with Iran as a strategic neighbor and ally.

Iran's Ambassador to Baghdad Mohammad Kazem Ale-Sadeq (L), and President of Iraq's semi-autonomous Kurdistan region Nechirvan Barzani meet on September 11, 2023. (IRNA)

The president of Iraqi Kurdistan, Nechirvan Barzani, has affirmed the region's dedication to the security accord between Iran and Iraq, emphasizing that they will not tolerate any actions that could jeopardize Tehran's safety, IRNA reports.

The remarks were delivered during a meeting with Iran's Ambassador to Baghdad, Mohammad Kazem Ale-Sadeq, on Monday.

The official further stressed the importance of relations with Iran as a strategic neighbor and ally for Iraq's Kurdistan region.

On his part, Ale-Sadeq emphasized the importance of putting the Iran-Iraq security agreement into action and enhancing bilateral relations. He also highlighted the significance of fostering constructive dialogue and interaction between Tehran and Erbil.

The ambassador commended the significant contributions made by Kurdish authorities in the Kurdistan region in facilitating the Arbaeen mourning ceremony, which is recognized as the largest annual religious gathering globally.

In the course of their meeting, Barzani and Ale-Sadeq delved into the most recent regional developments and topics of shared interest.

On March 19 in Baghdad, Iran and Iraq entered into a security agreement, which entails joint efforts to safeguard their shared border.

Anti-Iranian extremist organizations based in the Iraqi Kurdistan region have escalated their disruptive actions, particularly along the border.

In response to these activities, Iran's Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) initiated multiple rounds of shelling against their positions starting on September 24 of the previous year. They have pledged to continue these operations until these groups are disarmed.

Iran has repeatedly cautioned the local authorities in Iraqi Kurdistan that it will not tolerate the presence and activities of terrorist groups along its northwestern borders. It has stated that it will respond decisively should these areas become a breeding ground for anti-Iran militants.