The President of Iraq, Abdul Latif Jamal Rashid, was welcomed on Monday morning at the Presidential Palace by the President of the Republic, Nikos Christodoulidis.

During the official welcome ceremony, a military salute took place, while the national anthems of the two countries were played, and then the President of Iraq laid a wreath on the statue of Makarios III.

This was followed by a private meeting between the two Presidents, during which the President of the Republic, welcoming his Iraqi counterpart, said, among other things, that this is a historic visit, since it is the first visit by an Iraqi President to Cyprus.

He added that during the talks they would have with their delegations, issues related to bilateral relations would be discussed, such as the economy, investments, security, and counter-terrorism as well as issues related to the cooperation of the two countries in international forums.

He pointed out that, as the European Union (EU) member state in the region, Cyprus is in favor of strengthening EU relations with Iraq, also noting, addressing the President of Iraq, that his visit to Cyprus sends a message for their commitment to strengthening the cooperation of the two countries.

For his part, the President of Iraq said, among other things, that Iraq is enjoying security and stability and strengthening its relations with other countries, adding that it is linked with Cyprus by a common culture and common interests.

Finally, the President of Iraq invited President Christodoulidis to Baghdad, an invitation which was accepted.

Source: Euronews

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