TEHRAN, Nov. 14 (Xinhua) -- Visiting Chief of Staff of the Iraqi Joint Forces General Babaker Zebari called for the expansion of military cooperation between Tehran and Baghdad, the local satellite Press TV reported on Monday.
Zebari who arrived in the Iranian capital of Tehran on Sunday and headed a delegation of senior Iraqi military officials, made the remarks when meeting with the commander of Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) Ground Forces Brigadier General Mohammad Pakpour on Sunday, said the report.
The Iraqi general said that Iraq is facing some security challenges, and Baghdad needs to exchange views with Iran which is a strong country in many areas, including security.
"The visit aims to develop bilateral relations, since Iran and Iraq are two friendly neighboring countries, which should have very close relations ... The Islamic Republic of Iran is a capable country in many areas," Zebari was quoted as saying.
IRGC commander welcomed the suggestion and said that Iran will make every effort to help the Iraqis build a secure and safe country.
Pakpour said that the withdrawal of foreign forces provides an opportunity for the Iraqis to begin running their own affairs, according to the report.