policy
Iraq's Prime Minister, Ali Faleh Al-Zaidi, has invited French President Emmanuel Macron to visit Iraq. The invitation was extended during a telephone conversation held today, Saturday, where the two leaders discussed bilateral relations and avenues for developing joint cooperation across various sectors. A statement from the Prime Minister's media office indicated the call addressed several mutual concerns, including economic and investment cooperation in Iraq and opportunities for French companies. Both sides also discussed regional developments and joint efforts to reduce tension and foster security and stability. Al-Zaidi stressed the vital importance of Iraqi-French relations, reiterating his call for President Macron to visit Iraq and collaborate on building a sustainable economic and investment partnership beneficial to both nations. The Prime Minister affirmed the government's commitment to enhancing stability and transforming Iraq into an influential economic and political regional force, leveraging its wealth and strategic location linking international trade routes. He underscored Iraq's dedication to balanced relations with neighbors, its refusal to allow Iraqi territory to threaten their security, and its commitment to protecting Iraq's security, sovereignty, and people's interests, emphasizing dialogue for regional and international issues. Al-Zaidi also clarified that September 30 is the final deadline for the withdrawal of coalition forces, noting that this conclusion would enable Iraq to concentrate efforts on reconstruction, development, economic growth, and achieving welfare for its people. President Macron, in turn, expressed appreciation for the Iraqi government's actions, affirming France's continuous support for Iraq's anti-corruption and economic reform efforts, and its ongoing assistance in counter-terrorism and strengthening the Iraqi armed forces.
