Pakistan and Iraq have agreed to further deepen and broaden the scope of existing bilateral ties.

A decision to this effect was made during a meeting between Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif and his Iraqi counterpart Mohammad Shia' Al Sudani on the sidelines of 79th session of the UN General Assembly in New York.

The Prime Minister lauded the cordial ties between the two brotherly countries, reinforced by strong historical, cultural and religious affinities.

He also commended the excellent arrangements made by the Government of Iraq for the Pakistani Zaireen.

The two leaders decided to benefit from the potential that exists between the two countries for enhancing mutually beneficial cooperation.

The two leaders also exchanged views on regional and international issues of mutual interest.

Both the leaders noted with grave concern the ongoing Israeli carnage on Gaza and the ensuing humanitarian catastrophe.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif reiterated Pakistan's call for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and holding Israel accountable for the Gaza genocide.

Underscoring the commonality of views on international issues, both the leaders resolved to reinforce the international efforts at the United Nations and the OIC platforms for immediate ceasefire in Gaza, unimpeded supply of humanitarian assistance to Palestinian brethren.