Iraq and France Discuss Strengthening Cooperation in Energy and Security

Iraq 11:08 AM - 2026-09-12

Iraq and France flags.

Iraqi Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi will begin an official visit to France on Sunday, 13 September 2026, at the invitation of French President Emmanuel Macron, with the visit aimed at strengthening bilateral relations and opening new avenues for cooperation between Baghdad and Paris.

Élysée: Strengthening the Partnership

The Élysée Palace said al-Zaidi’s visit is intended to “strengthen the partnership between the two countries”, noting that Macron and al-Zaidi are scheduled to hold a working lunch to discuss cooperation in priority sectors, including energy, transport, infrastructure, water and healthcare. Several contracts are also expected to be signed, although their details have not yet been disclosed.

According to the French presidency, the two sides will also discuss the impact of regional instability on trade and energy supplies, particularly Iraqi oil exports, and efforts to restore exports in a manner that could ease pressure on global energy markets and support economic stability.

Economy and Energy

In a statement, the Iraqi Prime Minister’s Media Office said al-Zaidi would meet Macron on Monday, 14 September, to discuss a number of regional and international issues, as well as matters of mutual interest.

The statement said the visit would include expanded talks between the Iraqi and French delegations, focusing on broader frameworks for bilateral cooperation in the economic, security, energy and education sectors, among others.

The discussions will also address the foundations for new partnerships between the two countries, with several memoranda of understanding expected to be signed across a range of sectors.

Counter-Terrorism Following End of International Coalition Mission

The agenda also includes discussions on strengthening Iraqi-French cooperation in security and defence, amid anticipated changes to the mission of the international coalition against ISIS.

The French presidency said both sides would reaffirm their commitment to continuing the fight against terrorism and preventing ISIS from re-establishing its activities, while fully respecting the sovereignty of both countries.



PUKMEDIA