SULAIMANI (ESTA) — Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani and France’s Minister of the Armed Forces Sebastien Lecornu on Wednesday met in Baghdad.
Prime Minister Sudani, received this morning the French Minister of the Armed Forces Sebastien Lecornu, and his accompanying delegation, Sudani’s office said in a statement.
During the meeting, they discussed bilateral relations and explored opportunities for strengthening security cooperation.
They also focused on enhancing their collaboration within the Global Coalition Against Daesh or the Islamic State (ISIS), including providing advice and training for Iraqi security forces.
They emphasized their commitment to ongoing bilateral cooperation, particularly in the areas of training, armaments, and information exchange.
In the meantime, the Prime Minister commended France’s steadfast support for the Iraqi forces and highlighted the significance of the strategic partnership agreement signed during his visit to France last January.
“This agreement outlines a comprehensive action plan for advancing Iraqi-French relations across various sectors, including the economy, security, energy, culture, education, and more,” the statement said.
Sudani emphasized the government’s commitment to restructuring its relationship with the Global Coalition in Iraq, aligning it with the post-war phase against Daesh.
“During this critical period, the Iraqi security forces have made significant advancements in their military capabilities, and the government is actively working towards enhancing coordination with the coalition accordingly,” the statement added.
He also highlighted the government’s keen focus on training and armaments, expressing a desire to collaborate with French companies in these areas, particularly in the fields of air force, defense systems, and military industrialization.
He emphasized that the cooperation with France extends beyond the security aspect and encompasses various sectors.
“There are great opportunities for a comprehensive and integrated partnership between the two nations.”
Meanwhile, the French Minister of the Armed Forces conveyed warm greetings from President Emmanuel Macron to the Prime Minister.
He reiterated the French government’s readiness to collaborate with Iraq in the areas of training, armament, and capacity development.
Furthermore, the Minister emphasized their sincere commitment to fulfilling Iraq`s requirements and establishing genuine partnerships with the country.
Lecornu arrived in Baghdad on Tuesday on a trip to strengthen military ties with Iraq.
He is also expected to travel to Erbil.
“Determined to continue the fight against terrorism and for the security of Iraq by strengthening our bilateral relationship: training, joint exercises, equipment…,” Lecornu tweeted following a meeting with the Iraqi Minister of Defense on Tuesday.
“A visit to mark France’s continued engagement in the fight against terrorism and in the face of new threats,” he added.
