Upon his arrival in Damascus yesterday on an official visit, Iraqi Prime Minister Iyad Al-Alawi called for a “new genuine phase of fraternal cooperation and coordination” between his country and Syria.
Speaking to journalists at Damascus airport, he stated, “We must initiate a new genuine phase of cooperation, coordination, and integration after the end of the dictatorial regime in Iraq, and sovereignty has been transferred to the Iraqi people.”
Al-Alawi arrived in Damascus from Cairo as part of his first tour since taking office, and he was welcomed by his Syrian counterpart, Naji Al-Otari.
He thanked Syria for “embracing Iraq and Iraqis during difficult times when we were struggling against the dictatorial regime in Iraq, and Syria played a distinguished role” in receiving Iraqi opposition figures.
He expressed confidence that the visit would lead to “comprehensive and positive results.” Al-Alawi held talks with his Syrian counterpart yesterday before meeting President Bashar Al-Assad and Vice President Abdel Halim Khaddam today (Saturday), with plans to leave for Beirut tomorrow.
It is expected that the two sides will discuss issues related to border security and Iraqi funds deposited in Syrian banks.
