Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan’s visit to Iraq on Monday marked a historic moment, being his first official visit in over a decade. The visit seeks to strengthen bilateral ties and address key issues between the two nations.
During the visit, President Erdoğan and Iraqi officials signed agreements on water management, security, energy, and economic cooperation. They discussed enhancing cooperation against the PKK, which has bases in northern Iraq and poses a threat to Turkey’s security. Turkey aims to establish a security corridor along its border with Iraq to combat the PKK’s presence.
Energy issues also featured prominently in the talks. The shutdown of an oil pipeline from northern Iraq to Turkey since March 2023 due to an arbitration ruling was discussed. Water rights are another critical concern, as Turkey’s dams have been accused of reducing Iraq’s water supply. Climate change is expected to exacerbate water scarcity in Iraq, posing a significant challenge.
Baghdad has been complaining about Turkey’s military operations against the PKK in Iraq, viewing them as violations of sovereignty. However, Baghdad appears to be acquiescing to Ankara’s operations, having banned the PKK without labeling it a terrorist organization.
Erdoğan’s visit reflects Turkey’s desire for increased cooperation with Iraq in addressing shared concerns. The agreements signed and discussions held underscore the importance of strengthening ties between the two nations and finding mutually beneficial solutions to the challenges they face.
