ISLAMABAD: Pakistan and Iraq vow to fight terrorism and narcotics problems and to provide privileges for the pilgrims.
The commitment was made during the meeting at the Baghdad Palace between President Asif Ali Zardari and Iraqi President Dr Abdul Latif Jamil Rashid.
According to the President’s Secretariat, both leaders reviewed their bilateral relations and showed satisfaction at the balanced momentum between the nations.
As we recall, there were many high-level meetings conducted recently, such as the 9th session of the Pakistan-Iraq Joint Ministerial Commission and parliamentary interactions.
President Zardari reassured his counterpart that Pakistan supports Iraq’s sovereignty, territorial integrity and national unity.
Zardari Congratulating the New Government
He congratulated the Iraqi leadership on successfully conducting the parliamentary elections and wished them all the best in forming a new government.
The president said that current levels of bilateral trade did not reflect the economic, cultural and security relations of Pakistan-Iraq.
He proposed various opportunities for expanding investment, trade, defence and agriculture production sectors.
He also discussed the fields of information technology, construction, pharmaceuticals and related industries.
Under the existing memorandum of understanding (MoU), Zardari offered the Iraqi President full support on Iraq’s reconstruction and development efforts.
The President highlighted the concept of digital governance, financial services and medical expertise. He offered to share it with the Iraqi Government.
Pilgrims Facilitation
Asif Ali Zardari also stressed the facilitation of pilgrims who visit Iraq every year. He demanded a quick implementation of the proposed MoU on Zaireen Management.
He also assured the Iraqi President to stop the illegal entry of Pakistanis into Iraq’s territory.
The Iraqi president appreciated Pakistan’s role in uniting the Islamic Ummah and the historical support for the people of Palestine.
Also Read: Pakistan and Iraq mark closer Political and Economic bonds
