Iraqi President Abdul Latif Rashid enhances relations with Armenia during historic visit to Yerevan

YEREVAN — In a landmark meeting at the presidential palace in Yerevan, Iraqi President Abdul Latif Rashid held talks with Armenian President Vahagn Khachaturian on Wednesday. The leaders discussed strengthening Iraqi-Armenian relations, addressing international developments, and exploring opportunities for collaboration.

President Rashid emphasized the significance of the Armenian community in Iraq, considering them a vital ethnic component that contributes significantly to the deepening ties between the two nations. He highlighted the historical presence of Armenians in Iraq dating back to the Babylonian era, acknowledging their substantial contributions to Iraq’s development and their sacrifices for the country.

Rashid expressed solidarity with the Armenians, recognizing and empathizing with the pain of the genocide they endured. Drawing parallels to Iraq’s own historical suffering, including the Halabja and Anfal massacres and the crimes of the Islamic State (ISIS), Rashid underscored the shared experiences between the two nations.

President Khachaturian commended the historic nature of President Rashid’s visit, acknowledging its positive impact on bilateral relations. He also praised Iraq’s pivotal role in advocating for peaceful resolutions to global crises.

During the meeting, the two leaders chaired discussions involving their official delegations, focusing on the potential signing of agreements and memorandums of understanding across various sectors to mutually benefit both countries and peoples.

Common issues discussed included the establishment of regular flights between Baghdad and Yerevan, as well as between Erbil and Yerevan, to boost tourism and enhance social ties. The leaders explored the possibility of abolishing visas between the two countries and opening direct flights between Iraq and Armenia to further strengthen relations.