Iran hails Iraq's 'growing influence'

Tehran, April 24 (IANS) Calling for stronger ties with Baghdad, Iran Monday hailed the "growing influence" of Iraq in the Arab world.

Supreme Iranian Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei said Tehran is pleased with the increasing role of Iraq in the developemnt of the region.

Khamenei was speaking to visiting Iraqi Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki, who arrived here Sunday on a two-day official visit, Xinhua reported.

Referring to the recent Arab League (AL) meeting in Baghdad, Khamenei said it was another sign of Iraq's growing authority in the region.

During a meeting with al-Maliki Sunday, President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad had said there was no barrier to the development of political, economic and cultural relations between the two nations.

The Iraqi prime minister said both countries can join hands in bolstering stability and security in the region.