PM al-Zaidi and Macron Discuss Iraq-France Relations and Regional Stability
At a Glance
- Al-Zaidi speaks with Macron by phone
- Economic and investment cooperation discussed
- Regional tensions and security addressed
- France backs Iraq's reforms and security efforts
Prime Minister Ali Faleh al-Zaidi held a telephone call with French President Emmanuel Macron on Saturday to discuss strengthening bilateral relations, expanding economic and investment cooperation, and addressing regional developments.
Key Statements and Focus Area
- The two sides discussed investment opportunities in Iraq and prospects for French companies.
- Al-Zaidi stressed Iraq's commitment to dialogue and preventing its territory from being used to threaten neighboring countries.
- Al-Zaidi said September 30 remains the final deadline for the withdrawal of coalition forces from Iraq.
- Macron backed Iraq's efforts to combat corruption and implement economic reforms.
- France will continue supporting Iraq in counter-terrorism and strengthening the capabilities of the Iraqi Armed Forces.
Prime Minister Ali Faleh al-Zaidi spoke by telephone with French President Emmanuel Macron on Saturday to discuss Iraq-France relations and ways to expand cooperation across several sectors.
Economic and investment cooperation featured prominently in the talks, including investment opportunities available to French companies in Iraq.
The two leaders also discussed regional developments and efforts to reduce tensions and strengthen security and stability.
Al-Zaidi emphasized the importance of Iraqi-French relations and invited Macron to visit Iraq.
He called for joint efforts to establish a sustainable economic and investment partnership that serves the interests of both countries.
The Prime Minister said his government continues to work toward strengthening stability and developing Iraq into an influential economic and political power in the region by making use of its natural resources and strategic position along international trade routes.
Al-Zaidi said Iraq is committed to maintaining balanced relations with neighboring countries and will not allow Iraqi territory to be used to threaten their security.
He stressed the importance of protecting Iraq's security, sovereignty, and the interests of its people, while emphasizing dialogue as the preferred means of addressing regional and international disputes.
Al-Zaidi said September 30 remains the final deadline for the withdrawal of coalition forces from Iraq.
He said the conclusion of the coalition's mission would provide Iraq with greater opportunity to focus on reconstruction, development, economic growth, and improving prosperity for its population.
Macron expressed appreciation for measures taken by the Iraqi government and affirmed France's support for Baghdad's efforts to combat corruption and implement economic reforms.
The French president also pledged continued support for Iraq in counter-terrorism efforts and for expanding the capabilities of the Iraqi Armed Forces.
FYI
France has maintained security and political ties with Iraq while supporting efforts to strengthen Iraqi state institutions and counter-terrorism capabilities. The latest call comes as Baghdad seeks to expand international investment, strengthen economic partnerships, and increase its role in regional diplomacy while preparing for the end of the coalition's mission.
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