Rome, December 19 (QNA) - Italian Defense Minister Guido Crosetto met Friday with Iraqi Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein, who is currently visiting Rome, to discuss strengthening military and security cooperation between the two countries.

During the meeting, both sides highlighted the strong relations between their countries, particularly in the areas of military and security cooperation and counterterrorism, reflecting the level of partnership between them.

They also discussed ways to develop cooperation in the military and defense fields, agreeing to work together to remove obstacles hindering this cooperation, thus contributing to strengthening the bilateral partnership.

In this context, the Italian Defense Minister noted his country's participation in training approximately 60,000 Iraqi soldiers and police officers from various formations through specialized training programs and courses.

The two ministers also discussed the latest regional developments, particularly the Syrian crisis, and emphasized the importance of supporting stability in Syria and the need to de-escalate tensions in the region. (QNA)