Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said Iran and Iraq enjoy their strongest bilateral ties. He made the remarks during his official visit to Iraq. His comments highlighted growing cooperation and ongoing preparations for the Arbaeen pilgrimage.
Speaking on Monday, Araghchi described relations between Tehran and Baghdad as being in their best condition. He also praised the recent discussions held during Iraqi Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi’s visit to Tehran. He said both sides held constructive and productive talks.
The foreign minister said Iran and Iraq continue expanding cooperation in political, economic, security, and transit sectors. Both governments remain committed to deeper coordination. They aim to strengthen regional stability and improve cross-border development.
Araghchi explained that regular meetings between senior officials have strengthened mutual trust. Moreover, continuous diplomatic engagement has supported broader cooperation on trade, infrastructure, and regional security.
During his visit, Araghchi traveled to Najaf to review preparations for the annual Arbaeen pilgrimage. He said Iraqi authorities had introduced extensive measures to improve services for millions of expected visitors.
He also praised the organizational efforts made by Iraqi institutions. Furthermore, he said public satisfaction with available services has improved compared with previous years. He credited better planning, logistics, and visitor management.
The Arbaeen pilgrimage attracts millions of worshippers to the holy cities of Najaf and Karbala every year. Therefore, Iraqi authorities continue investing in transportation, healthcare, accommodation, sanitation, and security to support pilgrims.
Iraqi Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi also arrived in Karbala during the same period. According to an official government statement, his visit focused on monitoring the implementation of the comprehensive Arbaeen operational plan.
Government agencies continue working together throughout the pilgrimage season. They are improving transportation, emergency medical services, crowd management, and public safety for visitors arriving from inside Iraq and abroad.
Analysts say strong Iran Iraq relations support broader regional cooperation beyond religious events. In addition, stable diplomatic ties encourage trade, energy cooperation, border security, and infrastructure development between the neighboring countries.
Economic cooperation also continues expanding through cross-border trade and transportation projects. Improved customs coordination and transit routes have strengthened commercial exchanges and regional connectivity. These efforts also support economic growth for both countries.
Officials from both governments are expected to continue discussions on expanding bilateral cooperation. They will also oversee the remaining Arbaeen preparations and related operations. Observers will closely watch future diplomatic meetings as Tehran and Baghdad seek to deepen political, economic, and security partnerships.