Prime Minister, Mr. Ali Faleh Al-Zaidi, discusses by phone with the French President the strengthening of relations between the two countries and regional developments •••••••••• The Prime Minister, Mr. Ali Faleh Al-Zaidi, discussed today, Saturday, during a phone call with the French President, Mr. Emmanuel Macron, the bilateral relations between Iraq and France and ways to develop them and enhance joint cooperation in various fields. The call covered a number of files and issues of common interest, most notably economic and investment cooperation in Iraq and the opportunities available to French companies, in addition to developments in the situation in the region, and joint efforts aimed at reducing tension and enhancing security and stability. The Prime Minister pointed out the importance of Iraqi-French relations, calling on President Macron to visit Iraq and work jointly to build a sustainable economic and investment partnership between the two countries, in a way that achieves their common interests. His Excellency affirmed that the government will continue to work to enhance stability and transform Iraq into an influential economic and political force in the region, with its wealth and an important and influential location linking international trade lines. The Prime Minister stated Iraq's keenness to build balanced relations with neighboring countries, not allowing Iraqi lands to be used to threaten its security, and emphasizing the protection of Iraq's security, sovereignty, and the interests of its people, stressing the importance of relying on dialogue on regional and international issues. Mr. Al-Zaidi stressed that next September 30 represents the deadline for the withdrawal of coalition forces from Iraq, indicating that the end of the coalition mission will open a broader scope for Iraq to focus its efforts on construction and development, promoting economic growth, and achieving well-being for the Iraqi people. For his part, French President Emmanuel Macron expressed his appreciation for the steps taken by the Iraqi government, stressing France's support for Iraq's efforts to combat corruption and implement economic reforms, and continuing to support Iraq in the field of combating terrorism and strengthening the capabilities of the Iraqi armed forces. ••••• Media Office of the Prime Minister 8-August-2026