Iraqi president in Armenia to strengthen cooperation

YEREVAN, NOVEMBER 22, ARMENPRESS. President of Iraq Abdul Latif Rashid said his visit to Armenia is aimed at strengthening the cooperation in the political, cultural, economic and tourism sectors.

Speaking at a joint press conference with Armenian President Vahagn Khachaturyan, the Iraqi president described his visit to Armenia as a ‘historic’ trip.

“This is the first visit by an Iraqi president to Armenia, that’s why I consider this to be a historic visit. I am grateful to Armenia for the hospitality and warm reception,” the Iraqi president said.

He said that Armenia and Iraq have very strong geographic, cultural and social ties. “We are proud of the Armenian community of Iraq. Their coexistence with the Iraqi people comes from very early times,” President Abdul Latif Rashid said.

The Iraqi president said his country is now addressing the reforms of the service sector and it needs support from the international community, including from friendly countries like Armenia.

He said that there is great potential for trade cooperation with Armenia. The president also called for establishing direct air connection between Armenia and Iraq to contribute to an increase in mutual visits.