France and Iraq Agree to Strengthen Military Cooperation

Paris, September 15, 2026 : French President Emmanuel Macron and Iraqi Prime Minister Ali Faleh Al Zaidi have agreed to strengthen military cooperation between France and Iraq, according to a joint statement issued at the conclusion of the Iraqi Prime Minister’s two-day visit to France.

The two sides reaffirmed their shared commitment to promoting security and stability in the Middle East, emphasizing the importance of continued dialogue and coordinated efforts to ease regional tensions and strengthen stability.

The joint statement also highlighted the importance of advancing sustainability and regional connectivity projects, diversifying export routes and supply chains, and supporting regional energy security and the resilience of energy transportation networks. The two countries also expressed support for strengthening Iraq’s connectivity with France and Europe.

France and Iraq renewed their commitment to maritime security and freedom of navigation as fundamental principles of international law under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea. They also reaffirmed their support for efforts to safeguard freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz.

The two sides further agreed to maintain and expand military cooperation, including efforts to strengthen Iraq’s capabilities in border protection and support its sovereignty across its territory following the conclusion of the international coalition’s mission.

The planned military cooperation will be conducted through a bilateral framework that respects the sovereignty of both countries, with the specific terms to be agreed upon at a later stage.

Source: Qatar News Agency