French President Emmanuel Macron met with Iraqi Prime Minister Ali Falih al-Zaidi on Monday, September 14, in a discussion aimed at strengthening bilateral relations. According to the Élysée Palace, the official residence of the French president, the two leaders emphasized their shared commitment to combatting terrorism and preventing the resurgence of Daech, the acronym for the Islamic State group, which once controlled large parts of Iraq and Syria before losing much of its territory. The talks also touched upon broader regional stability in the Middle East, a region that has long been a focal point for international security concerns. Macron and al-Zaidi are likely to have discussed how instability in the region can have ripple effects on global security and economic conditions, including the purchasing power of French citizens. This refers to how the cost of living and economic pressures in France could be influenced by geopolitical developments, such as energy prices or trade relations. The meeting reflects France’s continued involvement in Middle Eastern affairs, particularly in supporting Iraq’s efforts to maintain security and political stability. France has been a key player in international coalitions targeting Daech and has provided military and humanitarian support to the region in recent years. While the primary focus of the meeting was on counter-terrorism and regional security, the dialogue also likely included discussions on economic cooperation and diplomatic relations. Such meetings are essential for maintaining partnerships that address both immediate security threats and long-term strategic interests.