By Laith Al-jnaidi and Rania Abu Shamala
BAGHDAD / ISTANBUL (AA) - Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani and French President Emmanuel Macron agreed Saturday to coordinate efforts to prevent further escalation in the region, according to a statement from the Iraqi Prime Minister’s Office.
The agreement came during a call between al-Sudani and Macron where they "various files and issues of mutual interest."
They agreed on "joint coordination to enhance stability and prevent further escalation” and reflected a "convergence of views" between Iraq and France on the new political process in Syria, said a statement.
The leaders emphasized the "importance of combating terrorism and extremism and working towards an inclusive and pluralistic political process."
They also underscored the "importance of finding a peaceful solution to the Iranian issue, avoiding escalation, and resolving disputes through dialogue."
The two leaders agreed to form a bilateral team to set a date for Macron’s visit to Baghdad and to discuss the possibility of holding the third edition of the Baghdad Conference for Cooperation and Partnership, according to the statement.
Al-Sudani reaffirmed Iraq’s commitment to "maintaining bilateral relations and strengthening cooperation at various levels, particularly in economic and cultural fields."
He highlighted the "important projects undertaken by French companies and the potential for their expansion in light of the anticipated visit of the French president to Iraq."
Macron expressed "France’s desire to continue cooperation with Iraq across various sectors.”
He emphasized a “readiness to coordinate with Iraq in counterterrorism efforts, given that terrorism poses a global challenge and a threat at both local and regional levels."
Macron also praised "Iraq’s role and efforts in combating terrorism."