TEHRAN – The warm reception given to Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia' Al Sudani in Tehran underscores the profound and enduring relationship between the Islamic Republic of Iran and Iraq, according to Hussein Alawi, an advisor to the Iraqi Prime Minister.

As reported by the Iraqi news network 964, Alawi highlighted Al Sudani's recent meeting with the Leader of Islamic Revolution Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei and other senior Iranian officials. This meeting took place on the sidelines of a commemoration ceremony for the martyrdom of Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi and his companions. Alawi noted that a delegation led by Prime Minister Al-Sudani visited Tehran to express condolences on behalf of the Iraqi government and people. During this visit, Ayatollah Khamenei warmly welcomed the Iraqi Prime Minister, a gesture that Alawi believes is a testament to the deep bonds between the two nations.

Alawi elaborated on the historic and geographical ties between Iran and Iraq, as well as their mutual strategic interests and social, cultural, and religious connections. These factors, he said, contribute to a stable and prosperous future for Iraq. "The relationship between our two countries is built on a foundation of shared history and common goals, which ensures that we can face future challenges together," Alawi stated.

Furthermore, Alawi emphasized the efforts of Prime Minister Al Sudani's government to strengthen Iraq's national interests with its six neighboring countries, notably Iran, Saudi Arabia, Syria, Jordan, and Kuwait. He highlighted that these efforts are part of a broader strategy to implement government programs and focus on constructive diplomacy, which is central to Iraq's foreign policy. "Our government's commitment to fostering positive relations with our neighbors is crucial for regional stability and economic growth," he added.

Security, development, and regional dialogue are among the top priorities for Prime Minister Al-Sudani. According to Alawi, these efforts aim to enhance stability in the West Asian region. "Prime Minister Al-Sudani is dedicated to promoting peace and development through dialogue and cooperation with our regional partners," Alawi concluded.

This visit and the subsequent discussions are seen as a significant step towards bolstering the already strong ties between Iran and Iraq, setting the stage for future collaborations that will benefit both nations.

The helicopter carrying Raisi and his entourage crashed around afternoon on Sunday as it was on its way to Tabriz, the capital of East Azerbaijan, from a location on the border with the Republic of Azerbaijan where the Iranian president had opened a major dam project.

Rescuers found the wreckage of the helicopter early on Monday after hours of extensive search which involved more than 70 teams.

Foreign Minister Hossein Amir Abdollahian and two senior provincial officials along with crew members and bodyguards also died as a result of the crash.

High-ranking officials from 68 countries and several international organizations traveled to Iran to participate in the funeral ceremonies honoring the late President and Foreign Minister. Iraqi Prime Minister was among the foreign leaders received in Tehran. 

During his meeting with Ayatollah Khamenei, Al Sudani also pointed to the large turnout at the funeral ceremony of the martyred Iranian president, reflecting the depth of the strong relationship between the people and the officials in the Islamic Republic, despite all the pressures, sanctions, and the recent tragic incident.

Earlier this week, Iraqi President Abdul Latif Rashid, along with several former prime ministers, and the heads of several political parties arrived in Tehran to offer condolences on the martyrdom of President Raisi to the Leader of the Islamic Revolution.