Paris, Ramadan 16, 1438, Jun 11, 2017, SPA -- French President Emmanuel Macron has vowed to strengthen France's cooperation with Ivory Coast on military and intelligence issues in an effort to help fight extremism in the region. Macron said "we are facing a challenge, the fight against terrorism and for security in our countries and our region," according to a joint statement with Ivory Coast President Alassane Ouattara following a meeting Sunday at the Elysee Palace. Macron said both countries will reinforce their partnership on these issues in the coming weeks, AP reported. --SPA 22:48 LOCAL TIME 19:48 GMT www.spa.gov.sa/w425802