POLITICS
Azerbaijan, Iraq discuss cooperation prospects
Baku, December 23 (AZERTAC). Azerbaijani Foreign Minister Elmar Mammadyarov has today met with his Iraqi counterpart Hoshyar Zebari.
The sides discussed political, economic, humanitarian relations as well as regional issues.
Mammadyarov said Azerbaijan`s Embassy will start operations in Iraq next year and it will contribute to further development of relations between the two countries. He underlined that Iraq supports Azerbaijan`s position in Nagorno-Karabakh conflict within the framework of the international organizations, particularly the UN and OIC, and hailed the fact that Iraq supported Azerbaijan in the UN Security Council elections, as well.
In turn, Iraqi Minister Zebari spoke of the issues discussed in the meeting. According to him, they exchanged views on boosting diplomatic and political ties, to prepare memorandum of understanding on consultations between the ministries of the two countries, energy cooperation, promoting mutual investment, visa-free regime for the holders of diplomatic or service passports, educational opportunities for Iraqi youth in Azerbaijan etc.
Hoshyar Zebari praised activity of Azerbaijan`s peacekeeping forces in Iraq. He also stressed importance of Azerbaijani companies` participation in restoration and construction works in Iraq.
The Iraqi Minister said his country supports Azerbaijan`s territorial integrity and fair position in Nagorno-Karabakh conflict.