Iran sees support for Iraqi army as 'strategic necessity'

Iran is ready to help neighboring Iraq increase its military power in the face of threats, Iranian Defense Minister Brigadier General Hossein Dehqan said on Monday, according to Tasnim news agency.

"We regard the Islamic Republic of Iran's support for the Iraqi army and armed forces as part of Iran's defense and security strategies in the region," Dehqan said in a meeting with his visiting Iraqi counterpart.

Iran backs Iraq's unity and territorial integrity, as well as the promotion of democracy in the Arab country on the basis of its constitution, Dehqan was quoted as saying.

The Iraqi Defense Minister Khalid al-Obeidi said Baghdad pins hopes on the cooperation with Iran, describing Iran's support for the Iraqi armed forces as a "strategic necessity."

Obeidi arrived in Iran on Monday for an official visit at the invitation of Dehqan.

Iran has acknowledged the presence of its military commanders in the neighbouring country for military consultations.

On Monday, Iran held a funeral ceremony honouring a senior commander killed in Iraq, media reported.

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