Pashinyan says economic ties between Armenia and Iraq growing

YEREVAN, November 22. /ARKA/. Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan recalled today rich cultural and historical ties between Armenia and Iraq as he welcomed Iraqi President Abdul Latif Rashid, who arrived on an official visit in Armenia after visiting Azerbaijan.

"I hope that your visit will give a fresh push to deepening of economic ties between our countries," Pashinyan was quoted as saying by the government press office.

He also expressed hope that mutual visits of government officials will increase following this visit.

In his turn, President Rashid expressed hope that bilateral cooperation in political, economic and trade spheres will strengthen.

The Armenian Prime Minister and the Iraqi President discussed a set of issues related to cooperation in such areas as economy, trade, high technologies, energy, water resources and tourism.

According to Armenia’s National Statistical Committee, the trade turnover between Armenia and Iraq in the first 9 months of this year amounted to $137.7 million, decreasing by 18.4% compared to the same period last year.

Exports from Armenia amounted to $137 million (18.7% decline), while imports amounted to $662,400 (94.1% growth). -0-