Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, accompanied by a high-level eco-political delegation, arrived in Baghdad on Wednesday to begin his first foreign trip since taking office in August.

Upon his arrival, President Pezeshkian was warmly received by Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani and Iran's Ambassador to Iraq, Mohammad Kazem Al-e Sadeq. The visit marks a significant step in bolstering ties between the two neighboring nations.

The president’s itinerary includes meetings with Iraqi President Abdul Latif Rashid and other senior Iraqi officials. Several cooperation agreements are expected to be signed, along with engagements with Iranian business representatives based in Iraq.

Pezeshkian’s trip also includes a pilgrimage to the holy cities of Najaf and Karbala, where he will visit the shrines of Imam Ali (AS) and Imam Hussain (AS). In addition, he will tour various Iranian development projects in Basra before traveling to the Iraqi Kurdistan region in the north.

The discussions between the two sides will focus on strengthening economic, political, and security ties. They will also address pressing international and regional issues, including the ongoing conflict in Gaza and the Israeli government's treatment of Palestinians, which both countries view as critical matters.

Before departing for Iraq, President Pezeshkian emphasized the importance of enhancing bilateral relations, noting that his visit aligns with Iran’s strategy to foster stronger ties with neighboring countries, following guidance from the Supreme Leader of the Islamic Revolution.

Pezeshkian assumed office after winning the Iranian presidential election in a July 5 runoff. (ILKHA)