France's foreign minister, Jean-Noel Barrot, visited Iraq and praised the country's efforts to preserve stability. He emphasized that Iraq should not be dragged into conflicts it did not choose. Barrot also discussed the two-state solution to the Palestinian-Israeli conflict and announced France's plan to recognize a Palestinian state in June. The visit aimed to strengthen bilateral relations between Iraq and France, particularly in the energy and security sectors. Barrot's regional tour will also prepare for an international conference on the two-state solution co-organized by France and Saudi Arabia.