Security Agreement with Iran – Iraq: ‘We will not be an arena for armed groups’

Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia’ Al Sudani said Sunday that Iraq is not “a theater for armed groups”.

The Iraqi Prime Minister made the remarks while receiving Ali Shamkhani, Secretary of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council, and his accompanying delegation, according to a government statement.

Talks during the meeting dealt with relations between the two countries, the security and political situation in the region, and ways to enhance security and stability.

During the meeting, Al Sudani affirmed “Iraq’s firm position rejecting Iraqi soil as a starting point for aggression against any of the neighboring countries,” according to the statement.

Al Sudani stressed his “categorical rejection of the presence of armed groups on Iraqi soil, or of launching attacks against them or any infringement of Iraqi sovereignty.”

The meeting also reviewed the progress of the recent agreement of understanding signed between Iran and Saudi Arabia. In this regard, Al Sudani confirmed Iraq’s welcoming of this agreement and its readiness to provide anything that promotes stability in the region.

The statement also said: “Shamkhani reiterated his thanks for Iraq’s role in this track and conveyed the greetings of Iranian President Ibrahim Raisi to Al Sudani and his confirmation of Iran’s desire to develop bilateral relations for the benefit of the two friendly peoples.”

“Under the patronage of the Prime Minister, a joint security protocol was signed between the two countries, signed by Iraqi National Security Advisor Qasim al-Araji and Iran’s Ali Shamkhani,” he said.

“The minutes include co-ordination in protecting the common borders between the two countries and enhancing joint co-operation in several security fields,” he said.