Iranian President Mahmud Ahmadinejad’s visit to Iraq which followed an invitation by Iraqi President Jalal Talabani indicates the Islamic Republic’s efforts for supporting the Iraqi government and strengthening stability and security in the country and the region.

The history of relations between Tehran and Baghdad, and their cultural and historical ties are so strong and long-lasting that even eight years of war which was imposed on Iran by Saddam Hussein’s regime could not harm the bonds between the two nations.
Considering the deep-rooted commonalities between the two countries, Iraqi officials also consider Iran a confident partner and a reliable friend, and seriously favor expansion of relations in various fields.
At the present time Tehran-Baghdad relation is at its friendliest and steadiest state in history, and the prospect of the two countries’ cooperation is very bright.
Ahmadinejad’s presence in Iraq opened a new chapter in the two countries’ cooperation, and this can set a unique model for other neighbors because from the political viewpoint the visit showed Iran’s complete support for the Iraqi government.
The president said in Iraq that “A united, powerful, and developed Iraq is in the interests the entire region, and Iran knows no limits for boosting ties with the country.”
This was a right and responsible statement addressed to those politicians who sidestep their responsibility in providing security for the Iraqis and instead blame other countries for their mistakes.
By declaring that the U.S. is the source of terrorism in the Middle East especially in Iraq, Ahmadinejad sent a clear message to the world not to be deceived by United States’ misguidance and to be aware that Iran and Iraq are two friendly nations.
The trip is also important from an economic viewpoint. Facilitating trades between the two countries through signing three agreements on eliminating double taxation, supporting joint investments, and cooperation in customs affairs in fact marked a new page in Iran-Iraq economic cooperation.
The new chapter in the two countries’ relations which has started with Ahmadinejad’s trip requires efforts in various areas in order to implement the signed agreements.
Mohammad-Ali Hosseini is Iran’s Foreign Ministry spokesman