Iraqi Defense Minister Thabet Muhammad Al-Abbasi and French Armed Forces Minister Sebastien Lecornu discussed areas of cooperation in training, armament, and bilateral relations between the two countries on Wednesday. The Iraqi Ministry of Defense stated that "upon his arrival, the Minister of Defense held an extensive meeting with the French Armed Forces Minister, during which they discussed bilateral relations between the two countries." France emphasized its priority in supporting the security and stability of Iraq and developing its armed forces, expressing readiness to continue cooperating with Iraq after the conclusion of the coalition mission, transitioning to bilateral relations under a memorandum of cooperation between Iraq and France.
The ministry added, "They also discussed areas of cooperation in training and armament, and reaffirmed supporting Iraq's sovereignty by securing its airspace with the latest technology and equipment." The ministry noted that "the minister's visit to the French Republic will last several days and will include several meetings between the Iraqi and French sides to support the Iraqi armed forces."
