Iraq and France issued a joint statement at the end of Iraqi Prime Minister Ali Falah Al-Zaydi's visit to Paris, emphasizing their shared views on strengthening security and stability in the Middle East. This statement particularly stresses respect for national sovereignty, non-interference in the internal affairs of countries, and good neighborliness.
Emphasis on Military and Security Cooperation
The President of France praised Iraq's commitment to a balanced foreign policy and its role in creating communication bridges and strengthening regional cooperation during this meeting. Additionally, both parties emphasized the importance of continuing dialogue and joint efforts to reduce regional tensions and ensure security and stability. They also highlighted the role of the Baghdad Conference as an important platform for cooperation and participation in supporting stability and regional integration.
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During this meeting, the President of France expressed gratitude for the efforts of the Iraqi Prime Minister and his government to monopolize weapons in the hands of the state. Al-Zaydi also emphasized his government's commitment to continuing investigations and bringing those responsible for the March 11 attack against French forces to justice, stressing the necessity of strengthening military cooperation.
Strengthening Economic and Energy Relations
The Iraqi Prime Minister also announced at this meeting that the relations between Iraq and France are based on historical ties and strategic partnerships in the fields of economy, energy, industry, and culture. He emphasized that the visit to France and Germany is significant in the current regional conditions and that regional, European, and international cooperation is needed to contain tensions.
Al-Zaydi stated that Iraq is stronger and more stable today, which means a stronger partner for France and Europe. He added that the Strait of Hormuz crisis has directly impacted Iraq's ability to export oil and the stability of government revenues. In this regard, Al-Zaydi emphasized the importance of investing in a stable and secure Iraq, stating that Europe's interests in Iraq's stability are tied to the economic and security interests of the continent.
The Iraqi Prime Minister also emphasized his country's efforts to prevent escalation of tensions in the region and pursued a policy of dialogue and non-alignment with any side in disputes. He asserted that Iraq will not allow its territory to become a base for exporting threats against neighboring countries.
In conclusion, Al-Zaydi emphasized that Iraq will expand its relations with regional and international parties and can help reduce tensions and open new horizons for dialogue and understanding. He also stressed the necessity of controlling weapons under government supervision, stating that this is a fundamental condition for building a united and stable country.
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