Berlin: Prime Minister Ali Faleh al-Zaidi commenced his official visit to Germany today, marking the second and final stop on his European tour, following a successful summit with French President Emmanuel Macron at the Élysée Palace.
According to National Iraqi News Agency, al-Zaidi is set to engage in intensive discussions with German business leaders in Berlin, focusing on investment opportunities. This visit builds on the positive groundwork laid in Paris, where both nations established a shared vision for bolstering regional stability. French President Macron lauded Iraq’s efforts to consolidate weapons under state control and promote the rule of law, while praising Baghdad’s balanced foreign policy approach.
In Paris, discussions on military cooperation led to the adoption of a strategic roadmap for the procurement of armed forces, including a letter of intent with the AI company Harmattan for autonomous air defense systems. Both countries emphasized continuing military cooperation within a bilateral
framework that respects sovereignty, post the international coalition’s mission.
Economically, Iraq and France signed a declaration of intent with Total Energies to embark on strategic projects in the electricity and oil sectors. Additional declarations were made with the French Development Agency (AFD) and the French Directorate General for Civil Aviation (DGAC), aiming to enhance civil aviation safety and navigation. An economic forum in Paris saw fifty French company representatives discussing cooperation in energy security, infrastructure, and industry.
On the cultural and scientific front, both nations committed to making education, research, and innovation pivotal in their strategic partnership. This includes academic exchanges, supporting archaeological missions, and opening the Mosul Museum with the Louvre. A national film policy will be developed with French expertise, and a French Medical Center in Sinjar will aid reconstruction efforts.
Al-Zaidi’s visit garnered significant attention for its pot
ential to transform diplomatic relations into strategic cooperation. The Al-Zawraa newspaper highlighted the joint statement from the France visit, emphasizing shared visions for Middle Eastern security, stability, and Iraq’s balanced foreign policy.
The joint statement also underscored commitments to maritime security, economic relations, and anti-corruption efforts. Notably, both nations reaffirmed their dedication to strengthening Iraqi-French relations under the 2023 bilateral strategic partnership agreement.
The independent Sawt al-Qalam newspaper reported the signing of six memoranda of understanding between Iraq and France, covering military, economic, and scientific cooperation, including a roadmap for defense capabilities and a gas supply contract with Total Energies.
Prime Minister al-Zaidi emphasized Iraq’s role in reducing regional tensions, as stated in a Le Figaro article. He highlighted Iraq’s historical ties with France and the importance of redefining relationships based on shared interest
s. Al-Zaidi reiterated Iraq’s commitment to sovereignty and non-alignment, seeking to prevent regional escalations through dialogue and balance.
Al-Zaidi’s remarks underscored the strategic importance of Iraq’s stability for Europe, advocating for investment in Iraq to positively impact European economies and security. He stressed that a strong Iraqi state is essential for playing a greater regional role and emphasized the need for placing weapons under state control to build a unified nation.
The Prime Minister also highlighted the significance of Iraq’s position as a trade and energy corridor, with projects like the Development Road connecting the Gulf to Europe. He called for moving from agreements to implementation, focusing on investments, job creation, and technology transfer.
Al-Zaidi concluded by affirming Iraq’s commitment to strengthening its partnership with France and expanding relations with Europe, aiming for a sovereign and stable Iraq.