Iraqi, French presidents meet in Nice during UN Ocean Conference

NEWSROOM — Iraqi President Abdul Latif Jamal Rashid met Tuesday with French President Emmanuel Macron in Nice to discuss bilateral ties and take part in the third United Nations Ocean Conference.

Rashid thanked Macron for inviting Iraq to the conference and expressed support for the event, co-hosted by France and Costa Rica. He said Iraq is committed to strengthening cooperation with France and building on what he called “distinguished” relations between the two countries.

He also voiced support for elevating bilateral ties to “more advanced levels” in a way that benefits both countries.

Full statement from the Iraqi Presidency:

President of the Republic Meets French President and Discusses Strengthening Cooperation and Files of Mutual Interest

His Excellency the President of the Republic, Dr. Abdul Latif Jamal Rashid, met today, Tuesday, June 10, 2025, with His Excellency the President of the French Republic, Mr. Emmanuel Macron, in the French city of Nice.

At the beginning of the meeting, which was attended by Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Mr. Fuad Hussein, the President expressed his gratitude to His Excellency President Emmanuel Macron for the invitation to participate in the Third United Nations Ocean Conference, wishing France and Costa Rica success in their sponsorship of this conference.

His Excellency affirmed his commitment to elevating the distinguished bilateral relations between the two countries to more advanced levels, and strengthening avenues of cooperation in a manner that serves the mutual interests of the two friendly peoples, noting the importance of coordination and joint work to consolidate peace and stability in the region.

The two presidents exchanged views on the topics included in the agenda of the UN Ocean Conference and the recommendations that will be issued regarding the protection of oceans and water resources from pollution, and the activation of international commitments to address climate and environmental change.

During the meeting, they also reviewed the situation in the Middle East, emphasizing the need to exert more international efforts to reduce tensions and enhance opportunities for peace.

For his part, French President Emmanuel Macron affirmed the depth of relations between the two countries and France’s constant commitment to strengthening them and expanding mutual cooperation, noting his country’s endeavor to support Iraq in its efforts to protect its security, stability, and sovereignty. Macron also praised the role of His Excellency the President of the Republic in strengthening friendly relations with his country, appreciating Iraq’s regional and international role in enhancing security and peace in the region.

Presidential Media Department