Türkiye, Iraq join efforts to counter terrorism

On March 14, 2024, a joint statement of the parties was circulated following a meeting of the Security Mechanism between the Republic of Türkiye and the Republic of Iraq.

According to the joint statement, Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan and Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister of the Republic of Iraq Fuad Hussein held a meeting in the Iraqi capital Baghdad, which was also attended by the Turkish and Iraqi defence ministers, the heads of the two countries' intelligence services, the chairman of the Iraqi Hashd al-Shaabi Commission and the interior minister of the Kurdish Regional Authority of Iraq (KRAI), Anadolu reported.

In the meeting, which was a follow-up to the talks held in Ankara on 19 December, the two sides discussed the common position they will take in the face of regional challenges in the light of bilateral interests.

The meeting also discussed preparations for the expected visit of Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan to Iraq after Ramazan. They confirmed that all efforts will be made to ensure the success of this historic visit and expressed hope that it will lead to a breakthrough in bilateral relations.

During the talks, it was decided to intensify work on the Memorandum of Understanding to establish a structural framework in various areas of relations between the two countries, creating mechanisms for regular contacts.

The Republic of Türkiye and the Republic of Iraq agreed that the authorities of the two countries would cooperate on a concerted, regular and results-based basis. This declaration, which they prepared intending to establish a strategic framework for their relations, will guide both sides.

In this regard, it was decided to establish joint standing committees to deal with the fight against terrorism, trade, agriculture, energy, water, health and transport.

The talks underlined the importance both sides attach to Iraq's political unity, sovereignty and territorial integrity.

The meeting also stressed that the PKK is a threat to the security of Türkiye and Iraq and noted that the presence of the PKK on Iraqi territory is a violation of the Iraqi constitution. Türkiye welcomed the decision taken by the Iraqi National Security Council to declare the PKK to be banned in Iraq. The sides discussed measures to be taken against the organisation and its branches using Iraqi territory to attack Türkiye.

The sides also exchanged views on regional issues, particularly the genocidal massacre in Gaza, and reaffirmed their strong will to support the Palestinian cause.

Türkiye and Iraq agreed to continue regular and continuous dialogue within the envisaged contact mechanisms.