LOC20:58
17:58 GMT
BAGHDAD, Jan 14 (KUNA) -- French Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian on Monday affirmed his country's desire to strengthen relations with Iraq, revealing a forthcoming visit by French President Emmanuel Macaron to Baghdad soon.
This came in a statement issued by the Iraqi Prime Minister's office after a meeting between the French official and Prime Minister Adel Abdulmahdi in the capital Baghdad.
Le Drian stressed his country's full support for Iraq and its government and its desire to expand bilateral relations with it.
"Iraq has become a key player in keeping stability in the region thanks to its policy of keeping a distance from conflicts, preserving sovereignty and independence of national decision," he added.
For his part, Iraqi Prime Minister said, "France is a friend of Iraq, and we are looking forward to greater contribution, presence, and cooperation with Paris in the fields of economy, services, culture and education.
The French Minister arrived in Iraq earlier today on an official visit during which he also met his Iraqi counterpart Mohammad Al-Hakim. (end)
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