(With photos)
BAGHDAD, Feb 20 (KUNA) -- Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said here on Thursday that military deliveries to Iraq are on schedule, stressing that his country supports the Iraqi government in its a war against terrorism.
"Military deliveries have not been delayed; they have been made in strict compliance with earlier contracts. It is a different question that our Iraqi colleagues would like to accelerate the delivery of certain types of products bearing in mind the pressing problem of terrorism," said Lavrov in a joint press conference with his Iraqi counterpart Hoshyar Zebari.
"The request has been made and we will try to grant it," the Russian minister underscored. He also called on the international community to unify efforts to counter terrorist acts especially in Syria and Iraq.
The Russian Minister also expressed his support to the Iraqi government's endeavors in achieving stability and security and national consensus in Iraq that should be clearly seen in the next parliamentary elections.
He added that Russia backs the right for the Middle East and North Africa countries to determine its fate without any exterior interference.
Russia and Iraq have agreed to speed up signing an agreement of cooperation in all fields, especially in education.
On his part, the Iraqi Foreign Minister said that he discussed with Lavrov an array of common issues that would boost bilateral ties.
He added that the armaments issue was discussed in details with the Russian Minister and he hoped the process of military deliveries to speed up.
Lavrov arrived in the Iraqi capital Baghdad to hold talks and discussions with senior government officials on regional issues of mutual interest. (end) mhg.nfm KUNA 201832 Feb 14NNNN