Latest news with #Durel
Iraqi News
6 days ago
- Politics
- Iraqi News
France praises Iraq's stability, vows continued security support
Baghdad ( – French Ambassador to Baghdad, Patrick Durel, praised Iraq's success in 'preventing being dragged into' regional conflicts and affirmed France's continued security support, during a speech on Monday (July 14, 2025) marking the French National Day. Ambassador Durel stated that despite regional tensions, Iraq is living through an 'important phase of stability' thanks to the government's efforts. He emphasized that Iraq's security and defense are a 'priority for France,' which continues its presence through the International Coalition and on a bilateral level, especially in training and armament. 'France is always ready to meet Iraq's need for equipment, and we continue to work to support Iraqis in preserving their country's sovereignty, including its airspace,' Durel said. The ambassador also highlighted growing economic and cultural ties, including efforts to link the French and Iraqi private sectors and the recent success of the Iraqi film Kingdom of Reeds by director Hassan Hadi at the Cannes Film Festival. He urged continued dialogue between federal authorities and the Kurdistan Region to overcome challenges, reaffirming France's commitment to strengthening its partnership with Iraq at this 'pivotal moment' in its history.
Shafaq News
6 days ago
- Politics
- Shafaq News
France reaffirms support for Iraq's stability and partnership
Shafaq News – Baghdad The Frensh ambassador to Iraq reaffirmed his country's commitment to strengthening ties with Baghdad, highlighting diplomacy, cultural exchange, and defense cooperation. In a speech marking France's National Day. Ambassador Patrick Durel praised Iraq's recent political and security stability and the scope of French-Iraqi cooperation across sectors. 'France and Iraq share a strong conviction that diplomatic solutions are always preferable to the use of force to overcome crises,' Durel said, citing France's support for the Baghdad Conference initiative backed by President Emmanuel Macron. The conference is intended to promote regional dialogue amid ongoing Middle East tensions. Durel noted notable achievements over the past year despite regional instability, pointing to increasing collaboration between French and Iraqi businesses. 'We are working together to rebuild strong ties between the French and Iraqi private sector... for the sake of Iraq's economic diversification and sustainable development and at the benefit of the Iraqi people.' The ambassador also highlighted cultural exchanges as a pillar of the bilateral relationship, with French archaeological teams resuming missions in Iraq and Iraqi filmmakers gaining international acclaim. On defense cooperation, Durel underlined France's active role in supporting Iraq's security through its contributions to the International Coalition, NATO Mission in Iraq, and bilateral initiatives. 'We pursue the training of the Desert Battalions,' he noted, adding that France remains ready to support Iraq's military and equipment needs, including safeguarding its airspace. Durel commended Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani for maintaining Iraq's neutrality amid regional conflicts, stating that the country is 'experiencing a period of stability' due to government efforts to steer clear of foreign entanglements. Describing Iraq's population as its 'real wealth,' the ambassador stressed the importance of unity and inclusion, referencing his visits to cities across the country, from Faw in the south to Zakho in the north. He also voiced support for continued dialogue between Baghdad and the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) to resolve internal disputes, saying France encourages both sides to overcome challenges through cooperation.
Shafaq News
09-04-2025
- Business
- Shafaq News
France eyes Iraq's Basra for new consulate
Shafaq News/ France is considering opening a consulate in Basra, southern Iraq, French Ambassador Patrick Durel announced on Wednesday. In a press conference during his visit to the province, Durel described Basra as Iraq's economic capital, revealing an agreement with the local government to boost French business activity in investment, oil, culture, and the arts. 'Our goal is to increase the number of French companies operating in Basra to provide more services across various sectors and to organize a business conference for French entrepreneurs to explore the local business environment,' he explained, noting France's desire to expand its diplomatic presence by opening a consulate in the province. In turn, Basra Governor Asaad Al-Eidani praised the longstanding partnership between the two countries, particularly in energy and water purification sectors with companies like TotalEnergies and RATP, affirming that both sides agreed to resume talks on developing public transportation.
