Türkiye, Iraq strengthen bilateral ties, pledge regional stability

In a pivotal diplomatic visit aimed at deepening bilateral cooperation, Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed S. Al Sudani met with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan in Ankara to discuss a broad agenda focused on security, economic integration, and regional stability. 

Against the backdrop of escalating regional tensions, the two leaders reaffirmed their commitment to transforming Türkiye-Iraq relations into a strategic alliance that can serve as a pillar of peace and development in the Middle East, Caliber.Az reports via Turkish media.

During the "FOCUS: Türkiye-Iraq Relations" program, Al Sudani underscored the strategic importance of the Türkiye-Iraq relationship. He expressed his government’s desire to have their ties act as a foundation for regional stability. "We want Türkiye-Iraq ties to be part of the regional stability equation," he said, acknowledging the geopolitical significance of their cooperation.

In addition to his remarks on regional stability, Al Sudani criticized the Israeli government’s actions, particularly Prime Minister Netanyahu’s stance, which he warned could escalate tensions in the region. He also provided a detailed overview of the two countries' relations, emphasizing the potential of the "Development Road" project to transform regional economic integration. This project aims to link Iraq and Türkiye through a 1,200-kilometer trade route that will connect key ports, including the Great Faw Port, which is set to become the largest port in the Middle East.

The Development Road initiative is seen as a cornerstone of future cooperation, and both leaders reiterated their commitment to advancing the project. Last month, Türkiye and Iraq held a high-level security meeting on the sidelines of the Antalya Diplomacy Forum, focusing on military cooperation, border security, and counterterrorism efforts.

The PKK (Kurdistan Workers’ Party), which both countries consider a terrorist organization, remains a significant challenge. The two nations have agreed on greater cooperation in combating the PKK, with Türkiye calling for more support from Iraq to tackle the group operating from northern Iraq. Iraq has responded by banning the PKK and setting up military bases to assist in joint security efforts.

The strengthening of Türkiye-Iraq ties marks a new chapter in regional cooperation, aimed at addressing security threats, enhancing economic opportunities, and fostering long-term stability.

By Vafa Guliyeva