Iran Not Seeking Permission For Supporting Iraq

New York, Sept 25, IRNA – President Hassan Rouhani here on Wednesday stressed that Iran does not seek permission from any one to support Iraq's security and development. "Tehran considers Iraq's security and stability as its own security and stability," the President said in a meeting with Prime Minister of Iraq Haider al-Abadi. In the strategic Middle East region, development and progress are possible only through consolidation of solidarity, President Rouhani told the Iraqi PM. Felicitating Abadi and members of the Iraqi new government, President Rouhani said Abadi and his cabinet were shouldering a heavy burden in the present critical juncture in that country. Iraq’s parliament officially named al-Abadi the country’s new prime minister in early September and approved most of the candidates he put forward for his cabinet. Hailing Bagdad's achievements in its fight against the terrorist group of Daesh (ISIS), President Rouhani said Iran would spare no assistance to Iraq in its current ordeal considering it a duty for Tehran both from the religious and neighboring aspects. President Rouhani stressed any military act in Iraq, including bombarding Daesh positions, by foreign countries should be made based on Baghdad's demand and permission. Meanwhile, the Iraqi prime minister said, President Rouhani was the first head of state that whom he called for a meeting with in New York. Abadi said terrorism is not only a threat against Iraq, but also a threat against Islam and all nations. He added Tehran's consultations have helped Baghdad prevent Daesh from making further advancement in Iraq./end