Prime Minister, Najib Mikati, and Iraqi Prime Minister, Mustafa Al-Kazemi, on Monday affirmed the strength of the existing relations between Lebanon and Iraq, as well as the need to boost them in a way that meets the aspirations of the Lebanese and Iraqi peoples, and the historical course of  relations between the two countries.

For his part, Mikati relayed Lebanon’s thankfulness to the Iraqi government, people, as well as religious authorities for their constant support, especially amid the tough post Port blast circumstances. 

In turn, Al-Kazemi stressed that Iraq would not spare any effort to support Lebanon to overcome the difficult situation that it’s been enduring. 

Prime Minister Mikati had arrived in Baghdad on Monday afternoon on an official visit that lasted for several hours, during which he held two meetings with the Prime Minister of Iraq. 

Mikati thanked his Iraqi counterpart for providing Lebanon with assistance, especially with oil derivatives that are sent to Lebanon on a monthly basis. 

However, Mikati requested an increase in their quantities, "in order to help improve the electrical supply situation."

Both sides have agreed to form a joint high committee between the two countries entrusted with researching all cooperation dossiers and facilitating the movement of passengers and goods between both countries, as well as studying the possibility of canceling visas between the two countries. The committee will start its meetings as soon as possible.

Discussions also featured high on the possibility of resuming the transportation of Iraqi oil from Kirkuk to the Beddawi refinery in Tripoli and the difficulties that might prevent this on the short term.

Discussions also took stock of the classification of agricultural and industrial products in Iraqi markets, as well as tourism and hospital cooperation between the two countries.