Iraq, Iran sign 14 agreements to strengthen bilateral cooperation

BAGHDAD — Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian oversaw the signing of 14 memorandums of understanding on Wednesday, strengthening cooperation between the two countries across various sectors.

Pezeshkian, on his first foreign visit since taking office, arrived in Iraq early Wednesday to deepen ties. The signing ceremony took place at Baghdad’s Government Palace, where both leaders led delegations in expanded talks. “This visit underscores the deep religious, social, and historical ties between our two nations,” Al-Sudani said, emphasizing the importance of geographical proximity in fostering closer relations. He added that Iraq was committed to implementing the agreements.

The MOUs cover a wide range of areas, including economic cooperation, youth and sports, cultural exchange, education, media, telecommunications, religious tourism, free trade zones, agriculture, postal services, vocational training, and workforce development.

Pezeshkian highlighted the strong bilateral relationship, calling it vital for regional stability. “We are eager to expand our economic partnerships and work together for mutual benefit,” he said.

Both leaders also condemned the “continued aggression” in Gaza by the “Zionist entity” and urged the international community to take action against the “genocide of Palestinians.”

Iraq’s Ministers of Foreign Affairs and Trade, along with the President of the Federation of Iraqi Chambers of Commerce, signed the agreements on Iraq’s behalf, while Iran’s Foreign and Economy Ministers represented their country.

Pezeshkian, a 69-year-old heart surgeon and veteran lawmaker, won Iran’s presidential election on July 6, following the sudden death of former President Ebrahim Raisi in a helicopter crash in May.