Iraq-France relations gained renewed attention as French and Iraqi officials emphasized deeper cooperation in Baghdad. French Ambassador Patrick Durel reaffirmed Paris’s support for Iraq’s reform agenda. He highlighted security, economic development, and anti-corruption as major priorities. Meanwhile, Iraqi officials welcomed France’s political and practical support.
Durel expressed confidence in Prime Minister Ali Al-Zaidi’s government. He said France would continue supporting Iraq’s development and institutional reforms. Moreover, Paris wants Baghdad to make progress across economic and security programs. The ambassador also encouraged stronger cooperation between the two governments.
Durel backed Baghdad’s efforts to place all weapons under state control. This policy seeks to strengthen government authority across Iraq’s security system. Furthermore, France supports measures that promote stability and protect national institutions. Stronger state control could also support long-term political confidence.
The ambassador also emphasized Iraq’s campaign against corruption. He connected effective governance with stronger economic development and public institutions. Additionally, anti-corruption measures could create clearer conditions for international partnerships. France wants Iraq to continue improving transparency across government operations.
Iraqi Deputy Foreign Minister Mohammed Bahr Al-Uloom welcomed France’s support. He said cooperation between Baghdad and Paris continued to expand. Furthermore, he highlighted progress across political, economic, and security areas. His comments reflected Iraq’s interest in developing a broad strategic partnership.
The progress in Iraq-France relations also includes significant security cooperation. Bahr Al-Uloom praised France’s role in the Global Coalition against ISIS. He also recognized French participation in the NATO Mission Iraq. These contributions have supported Iraq’s wider efforts against terrorism and instability.
France has worked alongside international partners to support Iraqi security forces. Moreover, both countries continue sharing an interest in regional stability. Baghdad values international cooperation that strengthens its national security institutions. Therefore, security coordination remains an important part of their relationship.
Bahr Al-Uloom also invited French companies to increase their investments across Iraq. He highlighted opportunities throughout energy, transportation, infrastructure, industry, and services. Additionally, Iraq wants foreign companies to support economic diversification. French businesses could contribute capital, technology, and professional experience.
Energy offers one major area for potential cooperation. Iraq seeks international expertise to improve production systems and supporting infrastructure. Meanwhile, French companies could examine opportunities across conventional and emerging energy projects. Successful investments could strengthen commercial ties between the two countries.
Transport and infrastructure also provide significant opportunities for French firms. Iraq needs modern systems that can improve trade, travel, and public services. Moreover, industrial investment could support local production and employment. Service-sector partnerships could also strengthen technology, management, and professional development.
Both countries now want economic cooperation to complement their security relationship. Political dialogue continues to provide the foundation for their expanding partnership. Meanwhile, investment could create lasting connections between Iraqi and French institutions. Reform progress could also encourage greater participation from French companies.
The latest Iraq-France relations discussions combined reform support with commercial opportunities. France encouraged Baghdad to continue security, economic, and anti-corruption measures. Iraq invited French businesses to explore projects across several important sectors. Therefore, both sides linked political cooperation with long-term economic development.
The remarks came during a French national celebration in Baghdad. Officials used the occasion to highlight growing ties between the two governments. Future progress will depend on continued reforms and active cooperation. Nevertheless, both countries expressed a strong interest in expanding their bilateral relationship.
