Pakistan has despatched a plane carrying Covid-related relief goods to Iraq, with two more consignments set for the coming week, according to a press release from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

The press release noted that the two countries "have long-standing fraternal ties" — based on shared faith and values — which are characterised by "regular high-level exchanges and growing cooperation in diverse fields".

"The Covid-19 pandemic is a global challenge, which can only be contained with international solidarity and cooperation. The government and people of Pakistan stand by their Iraqi brethren in this difficult time, the FO said.