Maliki discusses with Iranian FM ways to cement ties

BAGHDAD / IraqiNews.com: Iraqi Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki discussed on Wednesday with Iranian Foreign Minister Ali Akbar Salehi ways to develop and cement bilateral ties, according to an official statement. “The premier asserted the Iraqi government’s keenness to develop relations with Iran in various domains for the good of the two people,” said the statement received by IraqiNews.com news agency. Al-Maliki highlighted the importance of activating the joint high committee between Iraq and Iran, noting that the committee’s meeting would be held soon in Baghdad. Salehi, for his part, said Iran would support the Iraqi new government, stressing that his government will do its best to further expand ties with Iraq through increasing cooperation. This is the first visit of a high ranking Iranian official to Iraq after the country formed its new cabinet late in December last year. SH (P)/SR 3