DAMASCUS, Aug. 18 (Xinhua) -- Syria and Iraq Tuesday decided to establish a high-level strategic cooperation council to boost all-around cooperation, said a joint statement after the meeting between the two prime ministers.

    Syrian Prime Minister Mohammad Naji Otri met with his visiting Iraqi counterpart Nuri al-Maliki Tuesday to discuss ways to improve bilateral ties.

    "Both countries agreed to establish a high-level strategic cooperation council in implementation of what was agreed upon during Syrian prime minister's visit to Baghdad last year," the statement said.

    The council will be chaired by the two prime ministers and meet twice each year, alternately between the two countries. Foreign ministers, as well as ministers of defense, interior, petroleum, electricity, industry, finance, economy and transport of both countries are expected to be members of the council.

    "The fraternal relationship between Syria and Iraq is characterized by strong social and pan-Arab ties, as well as common history, culture and neighboring relations of both countries," the statement added.

    The statement also said Syria and Iraq will expand energy cooperation with ensuring transport of Iraqi oil and natural gas to the international markets through Syria.

    The meeting between two leaders also agreed to intensify consultation and coordination on regional issues of concern, encourage investment of public and private companies in both countries, facilitate transportation and promote cultural and education exchanges.

    The two sides will also establish a mechanism for high-level military dialogue.