By Zjan Shirinian

The National Paralympic Committees of Iraq and Iran signed the Memorandum of Understanding last week ©NPC IranThe National Paralympic Committees (NPC) of Iran and Iraq have signed a Memorandum of Understanding in an effort to build co-operation between the two countries.

Representatives from both nations met in the Iranian capital Tehran to develop a new model of working.

Iraqi NPC President Aqeel Hameed Oudah Al-Oudah was joined by a number of his colleagues as they met officials, including from the Iran Blind and Disabled Sports Federation.

The Memorandum of Understanding means Iran and Iraq will co-operate in holding educational and training courses in both countries.

The Iranian NPC will also transfer its knowledge and experience to help further develop Para-sports in Iraq.

Al-Oudah, President of the Iraqi NPC, described his visit to Iran as "fruitful" because of the common cultural features between the neighbouring countries.

Iran came 11th in the London 2012 Paralympic Games medals table, with 10 gold, seven silver and seven bronze.

Iraq picked up three medals at London 2012 - two silver and a bronze.