French President Emmanuel Macron said reducing tensions in the Strait of Hormuz could help secure energy supplies and called for alternative routes to ease pressure on fuel prices.
Macron made the remarks while hosting Iraqi Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi in Paris on Monday.
Macron stresses France-Iraq cooperation
Macron said al-Zaidi’s decision to begin his European tour in France showed that the two countries could play a stabilizing role in the regional balance. He said the interests of the French people should be defended within the framework of regional stability.
Macron said cooperation with partners in defense and security would continue and that the fight against terrorism would remain ongoing. He added that diplomatic efforts aimed to protect the purchasing power and ensure the security of the French people.
Iraqi prime minister’s visit to France and Germany
Ali al-Zaidi began an official visit to France and Germany on Sunday with a senior Iraqi government delegation.
According to the program announced by the Iraqi government, the visit will address economic relations, investment, trade, energy, industry and technology, as well as political and security issues.
The tour aims to turn existing agreements into viable partnerships and increase European investment in Iraq.