Türkiye, Iraq sign landmark MoU on security and military cooperation

Türkiye and Iraq have signed a landmark memorandum of understanding (MoU) aimed at strengthening cooperation in security, military affairs, and counterterrorism.

The MoU, signed by the defence ministers of both countries, was revealed during a joint press conference held by Fidan and his Iraqi counterpart, Fuad Hussein, in Ankara, Caliber.Az reports via Turkish media.

The announcement followed the 4th meeting of the Türkiye-Iraq High-Level Security Mechanism.

Fidan emphasized the significant progress made by Ankara and Baghdad in fulfilling the shared goals set by their leaders, particularly regarding the increased awareness and action against the PKK terror group in Iraq. He noted that the MoU, which had been under negotiation for some time, is expected to elevate bilateral cooperation through the establishment of joint coordination and training centres as outlined in the agreement.

Expressing a desire to advance counterterrorism efforts with Iraq through concrete actions, Fidan highlighted the importance of Iraq designating the PKK as a "common threat" and a "banned organization." He noted that during the meeting, both sides thoroughly discussed the security, military, and intelligence dimensions of their relationship, with a particular focus on combating the PKK. Fidan also welcomed Iraq's recent decision to close three political parties linked to the PKK.

Fidan reiterated Türkiye’s commitment to institutionalizing its historical ties with Iraq, pointing out that the two nations have recently intensified their political and technical contacts. This positive trend, he noted, was crowned by Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan's "historic visit" to Iraq in April, during which 27 agreements and memorandums of understanding were signed, reflecting a strong joint will to enhance cooperation.

Fidan also discussed the Strategic Framework Agreement between Türkiye and Iraq, which envisions the creation of Joint Permanent Committees to oversee cooperation in key areas such as trade, energy, water issues, transportation, health, and education. These committees, directed by a Joint Planning Group, are tasked with implementing the agreements and ensuring active collaboration.

On his part, Iraqi Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein described the MoU on security as a first of its kind in the history of bilateral relations between Türkiye and Iraq. He confirmed that the PKK is now recognized as a "banned organization" in Iraq, acknowledging that terrorism poses a threat to Iraqi society as well.

As part of the agreement, Türkiye and Iraq will establish a joint security coordination centre in Baghdad and a joint training and cooperation centre in Bashika to combat terrorism, particularly against the PKK, according to Turkish diplomatic sources.

Fidan also mentioned that Ankara and Baghdad are in "full agreement" on the situation in Gaza. He added that beginning from September 1, Türkiye will implement a visa exemption for Iraqi citizens under 15 and over 50 years old, as previously agreed during President Erdogan's visit to Baghdad.