Tasnim – Ranking commanders from Iran and Iraq discussed enhancing military cooperation and holding joint naval programs between the two neighbors.

Heading an Iraqi military delegation, Commander of Iraq’s Navy Major General Ahmed Jasim Maarij met with Commander of the Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) Navy Rear Admiral Ali Reza Tangsiri in Tehran.

The two sides discussed promoting defense cooperation between Iran and Iraq in the naval sphere, forming a joint commission of naval cooperation, enhancing coordination between the two navies, holding joint educational, scientific and research courses, sharing academic experiences, and staging joint naval exercises.

In the gathering, the visiting Iraqi admiral praised Iranian military forces for working in close cooperation with Iraqi forces in the fight against terrorism.

In July 2017, Iran and Iraq signed an agreement to boost military cooperation in a host of fields, including counterterrorism.

Based on the deal, Tehran and Baghdad try to promote interaction and share experiences in the fight against terrorism and extremism, work together to ensure border security, and provide each other with training and logistical, technical and military support.