Lebanon and Iraq emphasize strengthening historical ties and regional cooperation

AhlulBayt News Agency: In a joint press conference held in Baghdad, Lebanese President Joseph Aoun and Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia’ Al-Sudani emphasized the strong historical ties between Lebanon and Iraq and the importance of activating bilateral cooperation within the framework of common Arab interests, including national sovereignty and regional integration.

Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia’ Al-Sudani reaffirmed Iraq’s unwavering support for Lebanon, stating, “We continue to stand by the people of Lebanon in various fields and support Lebanon’s cohesion, stability, and official institutions.”

Joseph Aoun, in his remarks, highlighted the deep relationship between Lebanon and Iraq, noting that their shared history stretches back thousands of years. He referenced Hammurabi’s legacy and Beirut’s historical role in legal education, emphasizing both nations' longstanding concern for their people's rights and societal order.

Aoun further stated, “The time has come to achieve two goals: resolving our national identity within the framework of a successful state and establishing a clear path forward.” He referenced the guidance of Grand Ayatollah Sayyid Ali al-Husseini al-Sistani, who last November laid out a roadmap for stability, calling on intellectuals to learn from past experiences and work toward a future where all people enjoy security, stability, and prosperity.

Aoun outlined key measures to achieve this vision, including governance reforms based on merit and integrity, preventing foreign interference, enforcing the rule of law, restricting weapons to state control, and combating corruption at all levels.

Discussing modern Arab cooperation, Aoun reiterated his call for a structured system of shared Arab interests. He stressed the need for an institutionalized framework of bilateral and multilateral agreements to facilitate regional integration. His vision includes gradually forming a common Arab market to regulate economic cooperation, allowing the free movement of people, goods, and services among Arab nations.

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