Manama: Dec. 5 — (BNA)– Deputy Prime Minister His Highness Shaikh Mohammed bin Mubarak Al Khalifa received on Thursday the Foreign Minister of the sisterly Republic of Iraq, Mr. Hoshyar Zebari who is currently visiting the Kingdom of Bahrain, in the presence of Foreign Minister Shaikh khalid bin Ahmed bin Mohammed Al Khalifa.

The Deputy Premier welcomed Mr. Hoshyar Zebari, wishing him a nice stay in Bahrain, and explored with him ways capable of boosting bilateral cooperation relations, stressing Bahrain’s keenness on developing these relations in all fields. The Iraqi Foreign Minister expressed his gratitude and appreciation to His Highness the Deputy Prime Minister for welcoming him, highlighting amicable bilateral relations between the two brotherly countries based upon mutual respect which his country seeks to boost and develop

His Highness and the Iraqi Foreign Minister explored several issues of bilateral interest as well as current regional and international developments, stressing the importance of maintaining security, stability and development in the region. (IY)

I.Y

BNA 0943 GMT 2013/12/05