TEHRAN – Iraqi Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) Prime Minister Barham Salih held talks with Iran’s Supreme National Security Council Secretary Saeed Jalili in Tehran on Sunday.

Jalili told Salih, “Permanent and effective regional cooperation will secure lasting security in regional countries.”
He also described the formation of the Iraqi government as a major step toward stability in the violence-hit country.
Jalili also said increased cooperation between Iran and Iraq will benefit the whole region.
Salih, for his part, said that the Islamic Republic of Iran is playing a “unique” role in resolving regional problems.
He also called for further cooperation between two countries, particularly in the area of economy.
--Salehi hails Kurds for their role in formation of Iraqi govt.
Salih also held talks with Iranian Acting Foreign Minister Ali Akbar Salehi late on Saturday.
In the meeting, Salehi said that the Kurd officials played a significant role in the formation of the national unity government in Iraq.
“The Kurds showed that their presence and actions are important in uniting Iraqi factions,” Salehi stated.
Salehi added over the past 40 years Iran has provided assistance to the Iraqi Kurds whenever they encountered problems, especially during the regime of Saddam Hussein.
“This trip is a good opportunity (for you) to become familiar with our country’s capabilities and we are ready to share our experiences and facilities with you,” the top diplomat said.
Salehi also described the relations between Iran and Iraq as “historic”.
Barham Salih, for his part, said he was conveying the message of President Jalal Talebani, KRG President Masoud Barzani, and Parliament Speaker Osama al-Najafi, as well as other Iraqi officials who are seeking close ties with the Islamic Republic