Baghdad: PM Ali Al-Zaidi and French President Emmanuel Macron emphasized the importance of supporting the Iraqi government’s anti-corruption programs as the Prime Minister concluded his visit to Paris.
According to Iraqi News Agency, the Prime Minister of Iraq, Ali Al-Zaydi, visited France on September 13 and 14, 2026, at the invitation of President Emmanuel Macron. The visit aimed to strengthen the strategic partnership and friendly relations between Iraq and France. Both leaders discussed various aspects of regional stability, emphasizing their shared vision for enhancing security and stability in the Middle East through respect for national sovereignty and international law.
The discussions included France’s longstanding support for Iraq in combating Daesh terrorism. President Macron praised Iraq’s balanced foreign policy and its role in promoting dialogue and regional cooperation. Both leaders highlighted the importance of dialogue and joint efforts to de-escalate regional tensions, referencing the Baghdad Conference for Cooperation and Partnership as a significant contributor to regional stability.
The focus of the visit also included discussions on bolstering sustainability projects and regional energy security. Both parties highlighted the need to enhance Iraq’s connectivity with Europe and outlined commitments to maritime security and freedom of navigation in crucial waterways like the Strait of Hormuz.
The visit marked a reinforcement of the French-Iraqi relations within the framework of a bilateral strategic partnership signed in 2023. Discussions also involved military cooperation, with agreements to strengthen Iraqi border protection capabilities and support Iraq’s sovereignty.
Prime Minister Al-Zaidi expressed his government’s commitment to investigating the attack on French forces in March, ensuring justice is served. Plans were also discussed concerning future acquisitions of armaments for the Iraqi Armed Forces from French companies, with a Letter of Intent signed for autonomous air defense systems.
Economic relations were also a focal point, with an economic forum held in Paris to explore business ties in strategic sectors like energy security and infrastructure. The Iraqi government and TotalEnergies agreed to discuss energy projects aimed at boosting Iraq’s oil production and energy efficiency.
Several agreements were signed, including a financing arrangement with the French Development Agency and a Declaration of Intent between aviation authorities to enhance technical cooperation. Cultural heritage and education were also prioritized, with commitments to foster shared knowledge in strategic fields and expand educational exchanges.
The Prime Minister commended France’s support in reconstructing areas liberated from Daesh and expressed aspirations for further cooperation in humanitarian and development fields. The visit underscored the deepening ties and shared objectives between Iraq and France, with a focus on mutual benefits and regional stability.