President Ilham Aliyev receives Speaker of Parliament of Iraq [PHOTOS/VIDEO]

Ilham Aliyev, President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, received Mohsen Ali Akbar Al-Mandalawi, Speaker of the Parliament of the Republic of Iraq, Azernews reports.

During the meeting, they emphasized the importance of the 6th World Forum on Intercultural Dialogue, noting that this event, attended by numerous influential guests from various countries, contributes to international cooperation.

Acknowledging the rich historical relations between Azerbaijan and Iraq, the head of state described the current stability and tranquility in Iraq as positive. The President of Azerbaijan highlighted Iraq's rich history and culture, mentioning successful cooperation between the two countries within international organizations. President Ilham Aliyev noted Iraq’s consistent support for Azerbaijan’s territorial integrity and sovereignty during the period of Armenian occupation of Azerbaijani lands. Recalling the visits of the Iraqi President to Azerbaijan both officially and to participate in the Summit of the Non-Aligned Movement, the head of state emphasized recent visits by the Azerbaijani delegations led by two ministers to Iraq, where they were received by the Prime Minister of Iraq for detailed discussions aimed at expanding economic and trade relations. The President also touched upon the activities of the intergovernmental commission.

President Ilham Aliyev pointed out promising prospects for cooperation in the defense industry, energy, investments, and other areas.

The head of state noted that the visit of Mohsen Ali Akbar Al-Mandalawi to Azerbaijan provided a good opportunity to discuss issues related to bilateral bonds.

Expressing gratitude for the reception and hospitality, the Speaker of the Iraqi Parliament said they were pleased to participate in the 6th World Forum on Intercultural Dialogue.

He conveyed his congratulations on the progress made in normalizing relations between Azerbaijan and Armenia, indicating support for President Ilham Aliyev's efforts in this process and expressing hope for a peace treaty to be signed soon.

He acknowledged Azerbaijan's successful chairmanship of the Non-Aligned Movement, emphasizing the country's contributions and initiatives toward institutional development of the Movement. Mohsen Ali Akbar Al-Mandalawi highlighted the connections between the parliaments of the two countries, noting that the Iraqi Parliament supports the development of relations with Azerbaijan in all areas.

The Speaker mentioned that Iraq is undergoing large-scale reconstruction and invited Azerbaijani companies to contribute to the process. Mohsen Ali Akbar Al-Mandalawi said that they would be delighted to host President Ilham Aliyev in Iraq shortly.

The head of state said he would be happy to visit Iraq.

The Speaker of the Iraqi Parliament also conveyed congratulations on Azerbaijan hosting COP29 and mentioned that they were impressed by Baku's architecture.

President Ilham Aliyev thanked the Speaker for his kind words and congratulations, acknowledging that the world famous Heydar Aliyev Center, an architectural marvel in Baku, was indeed designed by Zaha Hadid, a distinguished figure from Iraq.

The meeting also included discussions on other matters of mutual interest.