Iraq Ready for Full Cooperation with Russia

"Advisor to the President of Iraq Jalal al-Mashta gave this interview to RIA Novosti commentator Marianna Belenkaya

Question: What is the purpose of your visit to Moscow?

Answer: I was invited by Umar Dzhabrailov Deputy Chairman of the Federation Council Foreign Affairs Committee in order to take part in a round table discussion: "Russia and Iraq - Prospects of Cooperation". It was held in Moscow at the initiative of the Russian Islamic Heritage movement. We discussed ideas on the development of bilateral relations, and Russian politicians and diplomats had a chance to learn more about the situation in Iraq. They were briefed on the development of the political process in Iraq, the gist of a new draft Constitution, problems that Iraq encounters, and our successes , which are not always public knowledge.

It is no secret that more often than not, the media paints everything black, ignoring the positive developments in Iraq. We also had a useful discussion on how to give a fresh impetus to Russian-Iraqi relations. Before my departure for Moscow Iraqi President Jalal Talabani said that the Iraqis were ready for full cooperation with Russia that will mutually benefit both countries. I'd add that to enhance our cooperation we should make bilateral contacts more intensive, in particular, to organize state visits at different levels."
RIA