Ali Al-Zaydi, the Prime Minister of Iraq, in an article for the French newspaper "Le Figaro," emphasized the importance of Iraq's relations with regional and international countries and announced that this country can play an effective role in reducing tensions and establishing calm.
Historical Relations and Strategic Partnership with France
Al-Zaydi referred to the relations between Iraq and France, considering these relations to be based on historical ties and a genuine strategic partnership in the fields of economy, energy, industry, and culture. He described his recent meeting with Emmanuel Macron, the President of France, as an opportunity to redefine these relations based on common interests.
The Prime Minister of Iraq also announced that his country is seeking to open a new chapter in its relations, where it appears as an active partner rather than a country seeking the demands or political umbrella of others.
Efforts to Contain Tensions
Al-Zaydi considered his trips to France and Germany as important in the current regional conditions and emphasized the necessity of regional, European, and international efforts to contain tensions. He noted that Iraq today is stronger, more stable, and enjoys sovereignty, and thus can be an effective partner for France and Europe.
The Prime Minister of Iraq also emphasized the impact of the Strait of Hormuz crisis on his country, stating that this crisis has directly affected Iraq's ability to export oil, trade flow, and the stability of government revenues. He added that Europe's interests in Iraq's stability are inseparable from the economic and security interests of these countries, and investment in a stable, secure, and sovereign Iraq will have a positive impact on the economy and security of European countries.
Control of Weapons and National Security
Al-Zaydi also emphasized that placing weapons under government control does not mean confronting any party, but rather is a fundamental condition for building a unified state where there are no rival centers of power and decision-making. He considered strengthening security and military institutions, as well as cybersecurity, to be among the main priorities of the government.
The Prime Minister of Iraq, referring to the end of the international coalition's mission on September 30, emphasized the importance of deepening security, military, and defense cooperation with Iraq's partners and added that Iraq's position as a trade and energy corridor, given its strategic position connecting the Persian Gulf to Asia, Turkey, and Europe, will be strengthened.
Regarding the development road project, he stated that this project will connect the Persian Gulf to Europe through a network of roads and railways over 1,900 kilometers long. Al-Zaydi emphasized that Iraq is looking to move beyond agreements and political frameworks and enter the implementation phase, and the measure of success for this plan will be the level of investment, job creation, technology transfer, and the development of Iraq's capabilities.
In conclusion, the Prime Minister of Iraq emphasized Baghdad's goal of building a stronger, more stable, and sovereign Iraq and strengthening and expanding partnerships with France through deepening relations with Europe.
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