Putin congratulates Iraq's new prime minister on taking office

Russian President Vladimir Putin has congratulated Iraqi Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi on assuming office, expressing confidence that his work would strengthen bilateral cooperation and contribute to regional security.

In an official statement, Putin said Russian-Iraqi relations are based on deep traditions of friendship and mutual respect, and wished al-Zaidi “every success, as well as good health and well-being,” Caliber.Az reports, citing Russian media.

“I expect that your work at the head of the government will contribute to the strengthening and development of productive and mutually beneficial bilateral cooperation in various fields, thereby serving the interests of our peoples and helping to ensure regional stability and security,” the statement noted.

Earlier, Iraq’s parliament approved the new government and endorsed the program presented by the prime minister.

By Bakhtiyar Abbasov