German Foreign Minister Frank-Walter Steinmeier arrived early Monday in Baghdad.

"The stabilization of Iraq is just as important as the search for a political solution in Syria," Steinmeier said after arriving.

While in Baghdad he is expected to pledge German support to Iraq in the fight against the "Islamic State" (IS).

Steinmeier said Germany would stand at Iraq's side "in truly difficult and stormy times."

A large portion of Iraq has fallen under IS control.

The German foreign minister's agenda includes meetings with President Muhammad Fuad Masum and Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi.

For security reasons, the visit was not announced publicly until Steinmeier landed in Baghdad.

av/jm (DPA, AFP)