French President Discusses Strengthening Partnership and Cooperation Between the Two Countries with Iraqi Prime Minister in Paris

Paris, September 14 (KUNA) -- French President Emmanuel Macron held talks today, Monday, with Iraqi Prime Minister Ali al-Zoubi at the Elysee Palace to discuss strengthening the partnership and cooperation between the two countries. The Elysee Palace said in a statement that the Iraqi prime minister’s visit to France aims to continue enhancing the bilateral partnership, noting that the two sides discussed cooperation in priority sectors including energy, transport, infrastructure, water, and health. The statement pointed out that as the role of the international coalition against the so-called Islamic State (ISIS) evolves, both sides reaffirmed their mutual commitment and shared determination to combat terrorism relentlessly and prevent the return of ISIS, while fully respecting the sovereignty of both countries. It clarified that President Macron stressed that stability in the Middle East must also yield tangible benefits for the French people, adding that the two sides discussed the impact of regional instability on trade and energy supplies, particularly Iraqi oil exports. In this context, Macron said in a post on his X (formerly Twitter) account that the Iraqi prime minister chose France as the first stop on his European tour, considering it “an important choice that demonstrates France’s capacity to play a role in achieving stability.” He affirmed that securing energy supplies by seeking to de-escalate tensions and developing alternatives for the Strait of Hormuz helps reduce pressure on fuel prices. Macron noted that expanding defense and security cooperation with partners means continuing “the relentless joint fight against terrorism,” emphasizing that this also represents a goal of French diplomacy to provide tangible protection for the purchasing power of the French people and ensure their security. (End) M.B. / M.A. H.A.