Iranian President Rouhani begins first official visit to Iraq

BAGHDAD - Iranian President Hassan Rouhani began his first official visit to Iraq on Monday, aiming to strengthen "brotherly ties" between Teheran and Baghdad.

Rouhani arrived at Baghdad International Airport on Monday morning. According to local media's report, he was scheduled to meet with top Iraqi officials and other political and religious leaders on the day.

Rouhani's three-day visit came at the invitation of his Iraqi counterpart Barham Salih to discuss bilateral ties and promote cooperation as Iran is the second largest supplier of imported goods to Iraq, including cars, gas, home appliances and vegetables, Xinhua News Agency reported.