Prime Minister Mustafa Kadhimi said Monday that Iraq was willing to strengthen economic cooperation and trade exchange with Lebanon, as well as coordination on security and combating terrorism.
Kadhimi spoke after meeting with his Lebanese counterpart Najib Mikati, who arrived in Baghdad on an official visit that lasted for a few hours.
“The meeting stressed the importance of deepening Iraqi-Lebanese relations to serve the two brotherly peoples,” a statement issued by Kadhimi’s office said.
It noted that the two officials discussed ways to enhance cooperation, and coordinate bilateral positions on regional issues and international issues of common interest.
Mikati praised Iraq’s support for the Lebanese people and for giving priority to the language of dialogue and constructive communication.
Sources close to the Lebanese PM said Mikati thanked his Iraqi counterpart for providing Lebanon with assistance, especially with oil derivatives that are sent to Lebanon on a monthly basis.
However, Mikati requested for larger quantities in order to help improve Lebanon’s power supply.
Last July, Iraq signed an agreement allowing the cash-strapped Lebanese government pay for 1 million tons of heavy fuel oil a year in goods and services, helping Lebanon ease its acute power shortage.
