ISLAMABAD: National Assembly Speaker Sardar Ayaz Sadiq has underscored the need for cooperation between Iraq and Pakistan to counter terrorism, which is affecting the Middle East and South Asia alike.

He was talking to Iraqi President Fuad Masum during a meeting held in Baghdad, said a press release. Mr Sadiq has gone to Iraq to attend the 11th meeting of General Assembly of Parliamentary Union of Islamic Countries.

Also read: Ayaz Sadiq meets Iraqi prime minister

The speaker discussed with the Iraqi leader strengthening of security cooperation and enhancement of trade and human resources development.

Mr Sadiq said that further coordination in trade, economic and social sectors would strengthen the relations between the two countries. He praised the efforts of the Iraqi government to counter security challenges.

The Iraqi president praised the armed forces of Pakistan, saying they had effectively dealt with militancy-hit areas by launching Operation Zarb-i-Azb.

Published in Dawn, January 28th, 2016