Tuesday, 02 January 2024 12:17 GMT

Iraq, France Deepen Defense Ties With Six New Agreements


(MENAFN) Iraq and France agreed Monday to broaden their defense cooperation, signing six deals following talks in Paris between Iraqi Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi and French President Emmanuel Macron.

The two leaders also settled on a roadmap for future Iraqi purchases of French weapons and military systems, according to al-Zaidi's office. Their discussions additionally touched on border security and ways to bolster Iraq's overall defense capabilities.

Among the agreements signed was a letter of intent between Iraq's Defense Ministry and French firm Harmattan AI covering autonomous air defense systems. Baghdad also said it plans further talks with French companies on artillery, counter-drone technology, air defense, and surveillance systems.

The remaining deals covered French military equipment supplies to Iraq, gas sector cooperation involving TotalEnergies, civil aviation, research and innovation, and collaboration with the French Development Agency.

Macron and al-Zaidi also addressed regional security concerns, calling for de-escalation and reaffirming their shared commitment to freedom of navigation, including through the Strait of Hormuz. Both sides agreed to further build out economic and energy ties under the strategic partnership the two countries signed in 2023.

Al-Zaidi wrapped up his two-day visit to France on Monday and is expected to head to Germany next for the second leg of his European tour.

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