Iran's President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad announced on Wednesday that there was no difference between the governments of Iran and Iraq. He noted that both Iran and Iraq hold similar beliefs on bilateral, regional and international issues, and that Iraq's stand on many security issues are often arrived at in coordination Iran.
Ahmadinejad stressed that conspiracies could not in any way damage the brotherly ties between Tehran and Baghdad.
"Both sides had similar concerns and regret over the difficulties caused the oppressed Iraqi nation; we hope security will be restored to that country with the establishment of a popular government," Ahmadinejad said, according to IRNA.
He also told reporters that his county's welcome for Iraqi President Talabani should also be seen as a welcome for the Iraqi nation as a whole.
His comments were made at a farewell ceremony for the Iraqi president.
"We regard dignity and progress of Iraq as those of Iran," Ahmadinejad added.
The Iranian president also stated that he felt that Iraq was moving towards progress, he also expressed hope that stability would soon be brought to Iraq.
During President Talabani's visit, the two reportedly discussed the establishment of joint transportation and gas networks. Agreements had also been reached to expand trade, and tourism between the nations.
© 2005 Al Bawaba (www.albawaba.com)
