Baghdad: The cessation of the PKK terror group's activities not only in Trkiye but also in Iraq, Syria, and Iran is "quite important" for regional stability, security, and preventing foreign intervention, the Turkish foreign minister, Hakan Fidan, stated on Sunday. During a joint news conference with his Iraqi counterpart, Fuad Hussein, Fidan emphasized the significance of the PKK's decision to dissolve itself, noting the need for the group to end its armed activities in Trkiye and withdraw from occupied areas in Iraq and Syria.
According to Anadolu Agency, Fidan highlighted the extensive cooperation between Baghdad, Erbil, and Ankara in addressing the PKK issue. He expressed gratitude for the collaborative efforts with Iraqi authorities, underscoring the importance of the 'Terror-free Trkiye' process for both Trkiye and the region. Fidan also pointed to the "intensive" collaboration between Ankara and Baghdad, stressing the necessity of a solution-oriented approach.
Fidan recalled numerous agreements signed during President Recep Tayyip Erdogan's visit to Iraq in 2024, emphasizing the importance of implementing these agreements. He mentioned the joint working committees established to tackle various areas, including security, energy, water, trade, customs, and transportation. The Turkish foreign minister reiterated the need for peace, development, mutual integration, and cooperation in the region, dismissing fragmentation and division.
Highlighting Trkiye's support for Iraq's peace and stability, Fidan noted that Iraq is making confident strides towards tranquility. He emphasized the collaborative efforts of regional countries, including Trkiye and Iraq, in addressing issues in Syria and the broader region. Fidan underscored the capability of regional countries to solve their problems independently, without relying on external intervention.
Fidan also discussed the upcoming water agreement between Trkiye and Iraq, marking it as a pivotal step towards efficient water usage and infrastructure rehabilitation. He noted that this agreement would be Iraq's largest infrastructure investment in history, resolving significant water-related issues for future generations. Additionally, he mentioned the ongoing cooperation in energy, particularly the resumption of the oil pipeline and discussions on gas and electricity projects.
Regarding the upcoming parliamentary elections in Iraq on Nov. 11, Fidan expressed confidence in Iraq's democratic maturity. He wished success to all parties and emphasized Ankara's respect for the Iraqi people's will. Fidan planned to meet with Iraqi President Abdullatif Rashid, Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani, and other high-level officials to discuss strategic and tactical matters.