Iraq Vows Support in Hard Times

Iraqi President Barham Salih said Baghdad will stand by the Iranian people and government during difficult times just like the Islamic Republic did when it offered substantial help in Iraq's battle against terrorist groups. 
"The people of Iraq will never forget the cooperation of the neighboring Iran in the fight against IS [the self-styled Islamic State terrorist group] and terrorism," he said in a meeting with Iran's Ambassador in Baghdad Iraj Masjedi on Saturday, ISNA reported. 
Iran is currently suffering economic hardship due to the strict sanctions and increasing pressure imposed by the United States after it left the 2015 nuclear deal last year. 
In the meeting, the two officials discussed regional developments and the importance of constructive dialogue to reduce tensions and ensure stability in the region. 
They also talked of ways of fostering closer cooperation between the two countries.