Iraq’s security directly affects neighboring countries- Mottaki

BAGHDAD / IraqiNews.com: Iranian Foreign Minister Manouchehr Mottaki said that Iraq’s security has a direct impact on all neighboring countries. This came during his meeting with Iraqi Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki in Baghdad today. The two officials discussed means of boosting bilateral relations, according to a statement released by the media office of the premier and received by Iraqi News. Mottaki reiterated his country’s condemnation of the recent blasts that struck the capital Baghdad 10 days ago and left 82 dead and 1,203 wounded persons, according to official figures. Earlier today, the Iranian minister arrived in Baghdad on an official visit, during which he is expected to meet with Iraqi officials. Mottaki’s last visit to Baghdad was on Feb. 11, 2009, where he met with Iraqi Trade Minister Abdulfalah al-Sudani over trade exchange issues, and with President Jalal al-Talabani and Premier Maliki before heading to Arbil, Sulaimaniya, and Najaf to meet with officials and Top Shiite cleric Ali al-Sistani. SS (P) 1