French Prez Hollande, Barack Obama discuss Ukraine, Iraq crises

Paris, June 21: French President Francois Hollande discussed Ukrainian crisis and Iraq situation on Friday with his US counterpart

over phone.

The two leaders "agreed on the importance to quickly stabilize the security situation and reach accord to stop fighting in the east of (Ukraine)", Xinhua quoted a statement issued by the French presidency as saying.

Hollande and Obama called on Russian President Vladimir Putin to urge Pro-Moscow separatists "to cease their military action, prevent the transfer of materials in Ukraine and strengthen the control of Russian-Ukrainian border", to pave the way for a de-escalation and dialogue.

They also warned Russia over new sanctions if it won't contribute positively to end the standoff in Kiev, the communique said.

As to the situation in Iraq where militants seized two northern cities and threatened the stability of the entire region, the two leaders expressed concerns over the deteriorating security situation in the conflict-torn country and pointed to the need to seek "a lasting political solution by implementing a national unity government".

IANS