(Xinhua)
Updated: 2008-03-03 21:20

BAGHDAD -- Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad said on Monday that his country and Iraq have signed seven agreements in various fields, including industry, trade and transportation.

"During the past two days, we have discussed some 20 programs within brotherly atmospheres, and we have signed seven agreements today," Ahmadinejad told a news conference in Baghdad.

The seven agreements were related to the development of relations in the fields such as of "insurance, customs, industry, education and transportation."

"This was a great step toward better relationship between the two countries," he said.

Ahmadinejad reiterated the need for "strong, stable, united and independent Iraq which will serve security and peace in the region. "

He also called on the US troops to leave Iraq, saying the region will "live in peace" without the presence of these troops.

"The foreign forces should leave the region and let the governments run its own affairs. They should not intervene in the affairs of region's countries," said the Iranian president, adding that "The area without the foreigners will live in peace and prosperity."

Ahmadinejad also said that Iraq, Turkey and Iran have to work coordinately to fight terrorism.

Asked about the reason that Ahmadinejad came to Baghdad in an announced visit unlike other leaders who visit Baghdad secretly, he said "I have nothing to hide and this question should be directed to them. Why you come secretly?"

Ahmadinejad arrived here on Sunday for a landmark visit, the first for an Iranian president since Iran's Islamic Revolution in 1979.