PARIS (AP) — French President Francois Hollande is going to Iraq on Friday to help prepare an international conference in support of the country’s efforts to fight off violent extremists advancing in the country.

The announcement Tuesday from Hollande’s office came after a meeting with the Iraqi president and prime minister about the Sept. 15 conference.

Hollande said last week that France is ready to join in a coalition against the Islamic State group if Iraqi authorities request it and the United Nations approves. He wouldn’t provide details on what allies were discussing.

Tuesday’s statement didn’t say who would be invited to the conference.

Copyright 2014 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.