And (I am given to understand) much less punctilious than most developed world countries about ensuring that their corporations do not violate sanctions, pay bribes to receive contracts, etc. I bet you're right. There is probably some merde-stained linen the frogs don't want aired.
Both France and Russia would benefit from an end to sanctions on Iraq: it owes France $5 billion and Russia $7 billion. Such debts cannot be repaid until sanctions are lifted and Iraq regains a share of its oil revenue.
This could be accomplished if Iraq was conquered, Non?