SULAIMANI (ESTA) — The President of the Republic of Iraq Latif Rashid met with French Ambassador to Iraq, Eric Chevalier, at the presidential palace in Baghdad.
At the outset of the meeting, Ambassador Chevalier conveyed the greetings from French President Emmanuel Macron to President Rashid and the Iraqi people, wishing them progress and prosperity, a statement released by the office of the presidency said.
President Rashid underscored the need to advance bilateral relations and promote further cooperation between the two countries, to serve both nations’ interests.
The meeting’s agenda included discussions of the issue of water in addition to the means of addressing water scarcity, caused by drought, climate change, and reduction of the transboundary water flow from the upstream countries, according to the statement.
In the meantime, talks focused on the need to reach an agreement between Iraq and its neighbors to ensure adequate water ration for all. Emphasis was placed on the importance of sustainable water management in the country.
The government placed on its agenda an ambitious ministerial program that aims to maintain security and stability and deliver better public service as well as carry out important strategic projects, President Rashid went on to note that, efforts are made to the general budget to meet the Iraqi aspiration to live in safety and with dignity.
Meanwhile, Ambassador Chevalier reiterated his country’s supportive stance toward Iraq and confirmed France’s desire to further develop bilateral cooperation.
“France is eager to promote Iraq’s stability and prosperity,” he added.
