FM hopes of stronger Pak-Iraq cooperation in future

BAGHDAD: Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari on Monday expressed the hope that bilateral cooperation between Pakistan and Iraq would strengthen in the future.

The foreign minister, addressing a joint press conference with his Iraqi counterpart Dr. Fuad Hussein, said that both the countries enjoyed decades-old ties and they always supported each other in the hour of need, the official news agency reported.

Bilawal arrived here on a three-day visit from Jordan on the second leg of his two-nation tour. He is undertaking his maiden visit to Iraq at the invitation of Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Dr. Fuad Hussein.

Bilawal told the media that every year a huge number of Pakistani pilgrims visit Iraq to pay respects at shrines.

Earlier, the foreign ministers held a meeting and discussed matters to boost bilateral ties between their countries.

During the meeting, the two sides agreed to enhance relations between Pakistan and Iraq in diverse and multidimensional areas including diplomatic ties.

During his stay, Bilawal will hold meetings with the political leadership of Iraq. He will lay the foundation-stone of the Pakistan embassy besides visiting Ziaraat.