Baghdad: Minister of Justice Khalid Shawani discussed with the French Ambassador to Baghdad, Patrick Durel, the possibility of signing a memorandum of understanding between the two sides regarding the exchange of convicts.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, the ministry stated in a statement that "Minister of Justice Khalid Shawani received the French Ambassador, Patrick Durel, where they discussed ways to enhance judicial and legal cooperation between Iraq and France, contributing to developing prospects for joint work and the exchange of legal expertise."

The statement added: "The meeting discussed the possibility of signing a memorandum of understanding between the two sides regarding the exchange of convicts, ensuring the application of human rights standards and facilitating procedures for visiting their families. They also discussed mechanisms for practical cooperation in this field, reflecting the two countries' commitment to promoting justice and protecting the rights of inmates."

According to the statement, the French ambassador affirmed his country's keenness to strengthen judicial and legal relations with Iraq, praising "the reform measures adopted by the Iraqi Ministry of Justice, expressing France's readiness to support efforts aimed at strengthening the rule of law and exchanging legal and judicial expertise to serve the common interests of the two countries."