Iran, Bahrain against attacking Iraq; Baghdad has to honor UN resolutions

In conclusion of the visit of the King of Bahrain Sheikh Hamad Bin Issa al-Khaleifa to Tehran, Iran and Bahrain have stressed their rejection to any military attack against Iraq, which they urged to implement UN resolutions "so as not to give a pretext for attacking any Islamic state."

In a joint statement issued in conclusion of the visit made by the King of Bahrain, the first since the Islamic revolution in 1979, the two countries voiced their solidarity with the Iraqi people and asked the " Government of Iraq to honor UN resolutions," stressing their " honoring of Iraq's territorial unity and national sovereignty." The statement warned against " threats the region is facing," and stressed " opposition to any act aiming at endangering security and stability in the Gulf region."

Both Iran and Bahrain expressed their determination to "open a new page " in their bilateral relations following a long time of coolness caused by among other things, Bahrain's accusations addressed to Tehran to sponsoring the Bahraini opposition movements activities which most of them take Iran as a headquarters, while Tehran denounces the American military presence in Bahrain.

The Iranian President Muhammad Khatami and the King of Bahrain expressed their concern, noting the importance of preserving security and stability in the region. Khatami said that "security is a priority in our important region and therefore it is imperative for us to strengthen our bilateral ties to ensure our growth and progress." The King of Bahrain said that "the Gulf region is in need of security and stability." He added "it is ripe time to strengthen our ties and solidarity and increase our consultations voicing support for a large scale development of relations between the two countries.

Worthy mentioning that the gradual rapprochement between the two countries since 1997 resulted in exchanging visits especially the visit paid by former Iranian President Ali Akbar Hashami Rafsanjani to Manama in March 1998.

Several trade, taxation and naval agreements were signed in conclusion of the visit of the King of Bahrain to Tehran.