Iraq calls on Washington, Tehran to reduce tension in region

BAGHDAD, Aug 18 (KUNA) -- Iraqi President Barham Saleh called, in two separate meetings with US and Iranian ambassadors in Baghdad Sunday, for reducing tension in the region and to strengthen security and peace.
In a presidency statement, Saleh met with the US Ambassador Matthew Tueller, and asserted on the importance of decreasing tension, resort to constructive dialogue, and to bolster joint security cooperation to end crisis in the region.
In a separate statement, the Iraqi leader discussed with Iran's Ambassador to Iraq Iraj Masjedi relations and ways to enhance joint cooperation in all areas.
The two sides also tackled political developments in the region amid calls to reduce tension in the region. (end) ahh.mb