Abdel-Mahdi: France Is A Friend Of Iraq And Relation With It Is Very Important

Baghdad, (NINA) - Prime Minister Adel Abdul Mahdi said France is a friend of Iraq and its relations are very important for its strong and distinguished role. We look forward to a greater contribution and presence in the fields of economy, services, culture and education in continuation of France's position on Iraq in its war against Daesh and supporting security and stability in the region. "The democratic experience in Iraq is being strengthened and progress is being made in favor of all Iraqis, and Daesh is not an Iraqi industry, but it is a backward and extremist thought industry, calling for the establishment of balances that support moderation, and civic values " Abdul-Mahdi said during a meeting with French Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Lourdes, according to a statement issued by his office. He stressed his keenness to develop relations with France in the fight against terrorism and construction projects and reconstruction, and expressed full readiness to overcome the obstacles. The Prime Minister thanked France's position on the cancellation of debts owed by Iraq through the Paris Club. The Prime Minister put forward a proposal for a twinning study between the cities of Paris and Baghdad, and the French side welcomed it and promised to study it. For his part, French foreign mister said, "We came to declare our full support for Iraq and its government and to express France's will to expand relations with Iraq, and we will continue to stand by Iraq in building after our supporting position in defeating Daesh and supporting Iraqi forces," He added: "Iraq has become a key player in stability and its policy is based on the exclusion of conflicts and the preservation of sovereignty and national decision, and France will go forward with the partnership and cooperation with Iraq and support the Iraqi government, which leads Iraq successfully," pointing to the expected visit of French President Macron to Baghdad to confirm support and development friendship, cooperation and partnership between the two countries. During the meeting, they discussed the situation in the region and ways to support stability and fight terrorism./ End