Aug 8, 2007, 6:42 PM

Malilki’s visit aimed to strengthen trilateral committee: expert

TEHRAN, Aug. 8 (MNA) -- An expert on Iraqi affairs, Mohammad-Hossein Ruivaran, said here on Wednesday that the most important goal behind the Iraqi Prime Minister Nuri al-Maliki’s visit to Tehran is to strengthen the trilateral security committee formed between Iran, Iran and the U.S.

After two rounds of talks between Iran and the U.S. in Baghdad in May and July, a joint security committee was set up which its aim is to improve cooperation between the three countries to help establish security in the country.

The security committee held its first meeting on Monday.

Ruivaran also said the trip of the highest Iraqi executive official to Iran for the third time shows Baghdad’s keen interest in expanding ties with Tehran.

Iran’s economic and political assistance to Iraq can improve the security situation in the war-torn country, he stated, adding, “Iran’s role in this case is unique and the U.S. and Iraqi officials are aware of this.”

Comprehensive cooperation of the regional countries is key to Iraq’s security woes, Ruivaran noted.

RMN/MS

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MNA

News ID 24466