Speaking in the meeting, Ayatollah Khamenei described Iran-Iraq relations as being truly brotherly due to the existence of many similarities in history, religion, culture and traditions between the two countries.
He stressed, “What is of great importance to the Islamic Republic in its bilateral relations with Iraq are the interests, security, dignity, and regional authority of Iraq in addition to the improvement of circumstances in that country.”
The Supreme Leader of the Islamic Revolution stressed that Iran has never wanted and never will want to interfere in the internal affairs of Iraq, saying, “Iran wishes to see an Iraq which is dignified and independent with its territorial integrity and internal unity and cohesion protected.”
Ayatollah Khamenei added, “Iran is definitely opposed to anything that weakens the Iraqi government. Of course, the Americans’ outlook concerning Iraq is the exact opposite of ours due to the fact that the US is an enemy, in the true sense of the word. That is why it does not wish to see an independent, strong Iraq that enjoys a government formed on the basis of the people’s votes.”
His Eminence stated, “The Americans do not care who the Prime Minister of Iraq is. They only want to establish a government like the one formed by Paul Bremer, the former American ruler of Iraq just after Saddam’s downfall. Iran does not interfere in Iraqi-American relations, but it expects its Iraqi friends to know the US and to bear in mind that the presence of the US in any country will bring about corruption, ruin and destruction.”
He emphasized, “The Islamic Republic expects the decision made by the Iraqi government, nation and parliament to expel the Americans to be implemented because their presence leads to insecurity.”
Referring to the assassination of General Soleimani and Abu Mahdi al-Muhandis as one of the consequences of the presence of the US in the region, Ayatollah Khamenei stated, “They killed your guest in your home, and they blatantly confessed to this crime. This is not a trivial matter. The Islamic Republic of Iran will never forget this, and it will definitely strike a reciprocal blow to the Americans.”
The Supreme Leader of the Islamic Revolution spoke of the consensus between various political groups and parties in Iraq in establishing Kadhimi’s administration, saying, “The Americans and their agents are always seeking to create a power vacuum in regional countries in order to cause a chaos and prepare the ground for their own intervention. This is what they did in Yemen. Everyone can see the appalling circumstances in Yemen today.”
Offering Iran’s support to Kadhimi’s administration, Ayatollah Khamenei said, “Wisdom, religion and experience dictate that Iran-Iraq relations be reinforced in all areas. Obviously, there are some countries which are opposed to the expansion of Iran-Iraq relations. The US is at the top of the list. But, we should not fear the US at all because it cannot do a single thing.”
Ayatollah Khamenei added, “The Americans cause trouble and create some hurdles, but the Iraqi government should continue its path with strength and without heeding these interferences. It should also protect the Iraqi people who are a source of support for it.”
The Leader described the Religious Authority and person of Ayatollah Sistani as being a great blessing for Iraq and stated, “Hashd al-Shabi is another great blessing in Iraq, which should be safeguarded.”
During the meeting, which was also attended by Iran's First Vice President, Eshagh Jahangiri, the Prime Minister of Iraq called the meeting with the Leader of the Islamic Revolution a great blessing.
Al Kazemi appreciating Iran's positions and support at various times, especially during the war with ISIS and the Takfiris, said: "The Iraqi people will never forget Iran's support, and the fact is that the blood of Iraqis and Iranians is mixed in the war against the Takfiris terrorists."
The Iraqi Prime Minister emphasized that Iran-Iraq relations are a deep, historical, cultural and religious relationship with the support of love and devotion to Prophet's Household (Ahl al-Bayt) AS.
Mustafa al-Kazemi also addressed the Leader of the Islamic Revolution and said: "Your Excellency's guidance and advice is key to solving problems, and I thank and appreciate these guidelines."