Baghdad: National Security Advisor Qasim al-Araji received the French Ambassador to Baghdad, Patrick Durel, on Monday. A statement from the National Security Chancellery indicated that several issues of mutual interest were discussed during the meeting. The French Ambassador congratulated Iraq on the successful parliamentary elections, emphasizing his country’s commitment to strengthening bilateral relations between France and Iraq in a way that serves the interests of both friendly nations.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, al-Araji affirmed that Iraq pursues a policy of balanced relations with all countries in a manner that serves the nation’s interests. He noted that France is a strong partner for Iraq, and that both countries are working to develop bilateral relations to achieve the common interests of their friendly peoples.