Iraqi PM meets Iranian vice president to discuss ‘importance of enhancing joint cooperation’

BAGHDAD — Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani met on Thursday with Mohammad Javad Zarif, Vice President of the Islamic Republic of Iran for Strategic Affairs, and his accompanying delegation, according to a statement from the Media Office of the Prime Minister.

During the meeting, the two leaders discussed bilateral relations and explored ways to strengthen partnerships across various sectors. They also reviewed the latest regional developments and highlighted the importance of coordinated efforts to support international security and stability.

On Jan. 8, 2025, Prime Minister Al-Sudani met with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian at Tehran’s Saadabad Palace to discuss bilateral relations, regional security, and ongoing cooperation under existing agreements, according to a statement from Al-Sudani’s media office. Discussions also addressed regional issues, particularly the situation in Syria, with both sides stressing “the necessity of joint efforts to establish security and stability and maintain Syria’s territorial integrity.”

Statement from the Media Office of the Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani:

Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani received today, Thursday, the Vice President of the Islamic Republic of Iran for Strategic Affairs, Mohammad Javad Zarif, and his accompanying delegation.

During the meeting, the two sides reviewed bilateral relations between the two countries and ways to enhance partnership in various fields, as well as discussing the latest regional developments and the importance of coordinating positions and steps to support international security and stability.

The Prime Minister emphasized during the meeting the importance of enhancing joint cooperation and coordination in addressing the challenges and developments facing the region, strengthening communication, and fostering regional and international dialogues to find sustainable solutions to the issues and crises in the region and to ensure the rights of peoples.

For his part, Zarif conveyed the greetings of Iranian President Masoud Bozshkian to al-Sudani, stressing the importance of coordination and cooperation in dealing with various developments and challenges.