Brussels, 26/05/2009 (Agence Europe) - Iraqi Deputy Foreign Minister Mohammed Haj Hammoud is currently in Brussels where the 8th negotiation session with the European Commission is being held until Wednesday 27 May with a view to concluding a Partnership and Cooperation Agreement (PCA). Launched in November 2006, these talks will lead to the very first contractual agreement sealed between the EU and Iraq. During the last negotiation meeting at the end of February in Baghdad, it had been agreed that the draft agreement should be upgraded from one on trade and cooperation to a more comprehensive partnership agreement. The agreement also provides for the setting in place of political dialogue on bilateral, regional and global issues for which it is in the common interest of both the EU and Iraq to work together. The agreement also aims to improve trade agreements concluded between Iraq and the EU, to promote investment and integrate Iraq into the international economy. Furthermore, it will establish a framework for continued cooperation in several areas. In a press release, the Commission welcomes the constructive nature of the talks and underlines its determination to play a “significant role” in Iraq's transition and to improve the living conditions of Iraqi citizens. (H.B./transl.jl)