Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Receives his French Counterpart to Discuss Bilateral Collaboration and Regional Developments

Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Mr. Fuad Hussein received Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs of the French Republic Mr. Jean-Noël Barrot, on 23 April 2025, at the Ministry’s headquarters in Baghdad.

During the meeting, the two sides discussed bilateral relations between Iraq and France and ways to strengthen them. They also exchanged views on a number of regional and international issues of mutual concern.

The Minister added there are several issues that can be discussed, which require bilateral, regional and international cooperation. In addition he indicated the importance of continued dialogue and coordination between the two countries.

On his part, the French Foreign Minister stressed the importance of this meeting, especially as it comes ahead of Iraq’s chairmanship of the next Arab Summit, in addition he indicated that important visits to the region are expected.

Minister Fuad Hussein indicated Iraq’s awareness of the importance and specificity of the third Baghdad Conference, affirming France’s interest, both as a presidency and as a state, in holding the conference and its central implications. The two sides expressed the importance of holding the Baghdad Summit and the essential issues it addresses, chief among them the security of Iraq and the region, and enhancing international cooperation to achieve regional stability.

As well Minister Barrot, expressed his satisfaction over the way Iraq has dealt with the recent crises in the region and its ability to avoid being drawn into these crises or being directly affected by them.

In the same context, Minister Fuad Hussein noted that Iraq has exerted tireless efforts to avoid getting into regional conflicts, and sought to limit their consequences and unify internal positions regarding them.

The two ministers exchanged views on developments in Syria, as Minister Hussein underlined that Syria’s stability is a major priority for Iraq, indicating that a deterioration of the situation there will negatively impact Iraq and the region, particularly in terms of security and counterterrorism. 

The French Minister commended the military cooperation between the two countries, particularly in equipping Iraqi forces with advanced French equipment. In addition the French Minister expressed his happiness with the presence of French companies in the Iraqi market and affirmed that providing a suitable investment environment will contribute to attracting more French companies to operate in Iraq.