Masum Meets French Ambassador To Iraq

BAGHDAD / NINA / President Fuad Masum, during his meeting with the French ambassador in Baghdad Marc Baretti, confirmed that "Iraq aspires privileged role of France in the rebuilding of its national economy." Masum said, according to a presidential statement that, "The relations of friendship and cooperation between Iraqi people and French are historical and strategic and in the interest of the two countries," stressing "the need to deepen the economic, cultural and academic fields. He added, "Iraq aspires strongly that France plays a distinct role in the rebuilding of the national economy, and in the reconstruction plans, especially the liberated areas." He pointed to Iraq's intention to sign the International Convention of the climate, praising the position of France, supporting Iraq and is looking forward to include the marshes and the archaeological sites of Iraq to the World Heritage List this year. For his part, Baretti stressed his country's determination to strengthen and develop cooperation with Iraq, and its keenness to continue military and humanitarian support, reiterated France's support for Iraq in its war against Daash, and its willingness to develop its participation in support the Iraqi economy. / End