Iraqi FM highlights Türkiye-Iraq development road as transformative project

Iraqi Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein emphasized the significance of the planned Türkiye-Iraq Development Road, describing it as a "massive project" that will establish a vital connection between Gulf countries and Europe.

Speaking at the Antalya Diplomacy Forum, Hussein revealed that Iraq and Türkiye are actively engaged in discussions to materialize this transformative initiative, Caliber.Az reports, citing Anadolu Agency.

Hussein confirmed the ongoing development of the Port of Faw in southern Iraq, the initial phase of the project, while acknowledging the need for additional investments to propel it forward. Highlighting the collaborative nature of the endeavor, he mentioned that Gulf countries are considering investments in conjunction with Iraq's share of the project.

The Iraqi Foreign Minister expressed the goal of reducing travel time between Asia and Europe through Türkiye by leveraging the Great Faw Port as a transit hub. The comprehensive project includes a 745-mile (1,200-kilometer) railway and highways, connecting the Great Faw Port to the Turkish border, with an estimated cost of $17 billion and a targeted completion date of 2025.

Addressing the issue of the PKK terrorist group, Hussein emphasized that it poses a challenge for both Iraq and Türkiye. He asserted Iraq's commitment to preventing any group, including the PKK, from operating on its soil and launching attacks against other countries.

Regarding the recent deployment of Iraqi forces in the Duhok region, northern Iraq, Hussein acknowledged the PKK's disruptive influence but reiterated the Iraqi government's determination not to allow any groups to function within its borders that pose a threat to neighboring countries. He disclosed plans for upcoming discussions on general security and border security between Iraq and Türkiye in the next bilateral meeting scheduled in Baghdad next month.

In a firm stance against terrorism, Hussein highlighted the ongoing talks with Türkiye to address security concerns, signaling a joint commitment to regional stability and border security.