Shafaq News / Iraqi Prime Minister Mustafa al-Kadhimi and French President Emmanuel Macron discussed on Saturday four issues, including economic and security.

Al-Kadhimi received a phone call from Macron, the first of its kind since the new Iraqi Prime Minister took office on the 7^th of May.

A statement issued by the Iraqi government stated that Macron congratulated Al-Kadhimi on his assumption of Prime Minister’s post, expressing his aspiration to strengthen relations between the two countries, and confidence in its development under the leadership of the new government.

For his part, Al-Kadhimi thanked President Macron for his congratulations, expressing his aspiration to develop the relationship with France, at various levels.

The two sides discussed ways to enhance the position of Iraq and its essential role regionally and internationally, in a manner that is based on Iraq’s possession of its sovereign decision, and according to its national priorities.

They also discussed the implications of the current economic crisis, and the support that the international community can provide to Iraq in this field, within the framework of a comprehensive Iraqi economic reform program.

The role of French companies in Iraq and the development of their work were also discussed, as was the role of France in the plans for the reconstruction of liberated areas.

They also discussed security cooperation between the two countries, especially in the field of combating terrorism, within the framework of the joint international effort in this regard. Corona pandemic developments in the two countries were also discussed, as well as ways to enhance cooperation in the field of combating it.

The French President extended his congratulations on the occasion of Eid Al Fitr, and expressed his aspiration to meet Al-Kadhimi as soon as possible, according to the statement.