Khatami meets Al Dulaimi

According to BNA, Iranian President Mohammad Khatami met here on Thursday with Iraqi Defense Minister Sadoun Al Dulaimi, reiterating the importance of Iraq in providing security, stability and development for the region.
President Khatami pointed to the sufferings of Iranians on the way to independence and democracy, saying the growth and maturity of Iraqi people in the elections are of great importance. He described as "positive" the move of Iraqis towards democracy, hoping its continuation through nation's will. Underlying Iraq and its nation as the oldest and deepest sectors of the Islamic Community and civil world, the president said they deserve a perfect position both in the region and the whole world. He referred to the historical and popular background of Iraq as well as its huge natural resources, maintaining it can change to decisive power regionally and internationally. "Iran and Iraq can further sustain their interests in the region and the globe if cooperate strongly," said Khatami, stressing the necessity of the immediate reconstruction of Iraq within the support of its elected federal government which is dependent on people's ballots. Pointing to the religious and ethnic diversity in Iraq, President Khatami emphasized on the unity amongst the people, saying "all the ethnic groups and religions should be aware that they share a common destiny and enjoy equal rights." He further expressed Iran's readiness to fully cooperate with Iraqis in maintaining peace, security and advancement. Iraq's Defense Minister, Sadoun Al-Dulaimi, hailed Iraqis' efforts in deciding their fate, saying it depends on peace and security. He pointed to the historical and cultural commonalties between Iran and Iraq, calling for strengthening bilateral ties in all spots.