BAGHDAD, Iraq: The Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi met the President of the Republic of Iraq His Excellency Dr. Barham Salih in Baghdad on Saturday.
The foreign minister conveyed warm wishes to President Dr. Barham Salih from Pakistan’s leadership. He affirmed Pakistan’s support for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Iraq.
While acknowledging the unyielding efforts and sacrifices of Iraq, and its people, in the fight against terrorism, the foreign minister wished peace, progress, and prosperity for the brotherly people of Iraq.
The Iraqi president warmly welcomed the foreign minister and reciprocated the feelings expressed on behalf of Pakistan’s leadership. He thanked the foreign minister for Pakistan’s understanding and support.
Called on His Excellency President @BarhamSalih today and conveyed best wishes from Pakistan’s leadership and people for prosperity for the people and government of Iraq. Also expressed condolence on the fire in Ibn al Khatib Covid Hospital recently that took many lives. pic.twitter.com/Lp5gdqpAzH
— Shah Mahmood Qureshi (@SMQureshiPTI) May 29, 2021
Pakistan and Iraq enjoy historic ties rooted in shared faith, values and culture and we look forward to collaborating closely to enhance bilateral cooperation across a diversity of fields. 🇵🇰 🤝 🇮🇶 https://t.co/5Bn5MeecL7
— Shah Mahmood Qureshi (@SMQureshiPTI) May 29, 2021
Qureshi briefed President Salih on Pakistan’s transformed vision centered around economic security, shifting focus from geo-politics to geo-economics. He outlined Pakistan’s desire to offer itself as an economic hub through peace, development partnerships and connectivity.
Reaffirming Pakistan’s long-standing and friendly ties with Iraq, the foreign minister expressed Pakistan’s desire to further enhance existing bilateral ties in all spheres of cooperation.
The foreign minister offered Pakistan’s support and cooperation for Iraq’s efforts toward rebuilding and strengthening the country.
The Iraqi president agreed that the two Countries needed to strengthen bilateral cooperation in mutually beneficial areas.
Appreciating Prime Minister Imran Khan’s environmental initiatives, President Salih hoped for greater cooperation in this field.
The foreign minister and the Iraqi president also discussed regional and global issues of mutual interest.
Shah Mahmood Qureshi briefed President Salih on the situation in South Asia, in particular Pakistan’s approach towards the issues and disputes with India, Pakistan’s consistent support for the Afghan peace process, and Pakistan’s steadfast diplomatic support for the just cause of Palestine. He also highlighted Pakistan’s efforts to promote solidarity among the Muslim Ummah.
The Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi is undertaking a three-day bilateral visit to Iraq, at the invitation of his Iraqi counterpart.
During the visit, he will hold extensive discussions with important dignitaries in Iraq, on bilateral cooperation and important regional and global issues.
