Majlis Speaker Ali Larijani on Thursday held talks with Iraqi Deputy Prime Minister Barham Salih, IRNA reported. Larijani said that Iran and Iraq as two friendly countries, enjoying strong religious, cultural and civilization affinity, should expand economic, cultural and political relations more than ever based on interests of both nations. He said that he was pleased with the progress in the fields of stability, security and tranquility in the neighboring country, noting that Iran is ready to help Iraqi nation to bolster welfare, economy, security and stability. "It is the right time for Iraqi people to rein their own fate after bearing years of difficulties," he added. Salih, for his part, thanked Iran for helping Iraq establish security and stability, adding that Iraqi government is ready to endorse Iranian investments in the war-stricken country. He also noted that Iraq gives priority to expand ties with its neighboring countries, particularly Iran.
