BAGHDAD, Feb. 8 -- French Defense Minister Florence Parly arrived Friday in Iraq's capital Baghdad on a surprise and unannounced visit to discuss bilateral ties and the enhancement of Iraqi military capabilities, according to an official presidential statement.

Parly was received by Iraq's President Barham Salih in Peace Palace.

"Iraq wants to establish advanced and expanded relations with France in various fields. We firmly believe that the two countries can play an important and influential role in many regional and international issues," the statement quoted Salih as saying.

The president emphasized the importance of France's contribution to strengthen the Iraqi military capabilities at the level of armament and training, praising France's vital role in the international coalition against terrorism and its support for Iraq in defeating the terrorist organization and liberating all its cities.

He pointed out that expanding the horizons of cooperation with the EU countries is a priority in the future, as Iraq is an important link connecting several countries to Europe.

For her part, the French minister renewed her country's support for the stability of Iraq and its readiness to provide support for the Iraqi security forces.

The statement said the two sides discussed the latest regional and international developments.

This is the second visit by a senior French official to Iraq in less than a month, which reflects the development and success of bilateral relations between the two sides.

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