BAGHDAD, June 27 (Xinhua) -- Iraqi President Abdul Latif Rashid held a phone conversation on Friday with the President of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan to discuss regional developments and ways to enhance bilateral cooperation.

During the phone call, both leaders underscored the importance of de-escalation and the pursuit of peaceful and diplomatic solutions to regional crises, according to a statement issued by the Iraqi presidency.

They affirmed that dialogue remains the most effective path toward reinforcing regional and global stability and expressed support for sustained coordination and joint efforts toward peace, it said.

They also talked about the "catastrophic humanitarian situation in Gaza," the statement said, noting that the two leaders called for intensified regional and international efforts to halt Israeli "aggression," ensure immediate and unhindered delivery of humanitarian aid, lift the blockade, and alleviate the suffering of civilians in Gaza. Enditem