INA - BAGHDAD

PM Muhammed S. Al-Sudani affirmed on Saturday Iraq's keenness to maintain bilateral relations and enhance cooperation at various levels with France. 

He agreed with French President Emmanuel Macron on joint coordination to enhance stability and avoid further escalation in the region, according to a statement by the PM's media Office - received by the Iraqi News Agency - INA.

Al-Sudani received a phone call from Macron, during which they discussed a range of issues of mutual interest.

The two sides agreed that a bilateral team would set a date for Macron's visit to Baghdad and discuss the possibility of holding the third edition of the Baghdad Conference for Cooperation and Partnership.

They exchanged views between Iraq and France regarding the new political process in Syria, which "must reflect social diversity" emphasizing the need to combat terrorism and extremism in addition to working to achieve a pluralistic and inclusive political process. 

They highlighted "the importance of stabilizing Lebanon, strengthening efforts to rebuild Gaza, maintaining the truce, and preventing any escalation that might arise as a result of non-compliance with it were also emphasized."

Regarding the situation in the region, "an agreement was reached on joint coordination to enhance stability and avoid further escalation, emphasizing the importance of finding a peaceful solution to the Iranian issue, avoiding the risk of escalation, and the need to resolve differences through dialogue."

The Prime Minister affirmed Iraq's keenness to "maintain bilateral relations and enhance cooperation at various levels, especially in the economic and cultural fields," pointing to "the important projects undertaken by French companies and the possibility of expanding in light of the upcoming visit of the French President to Iraq." 

In turn, President Macron affirmed "his country's desire to continue cooperation with Iraq in various fields," asserting "France's readiness to coordinate with Iraq in the fight against terrorism, given its global challenge and threat at the local and regional levels," praising Iraq's role and efforts in counterterrorism.