Baghdad:Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan praised Iraqi Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi's "strong vision" for enhancing bilateral relations during talks held in Baghdad. Fidan emphasized the positive impact of al-Zaidi's approach on Iraq's policies and expressed optimism about future cooperation between the two countries.
According to Anadolu Agency, the meeting occurred alongside the 52nd Session of the Council of Foreign Ministers of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC). Discussions between the Turkish and Iraqi officials covered a range of topics, including energy, connectivity, the Development Road Project, as well as security and defense cooperation. The talks also addressed counterterrorism efforts and the situation in Sinjar.
Fidan reiterated Turkey's support for Iraq's constructive policies and highlighted a shared vision to elevate bilateral relations to unprecedented levels. He expressed hope that regional issues would be resolved through dialogue, creating a more peaceful environment for Iraq and the region.
During the OIC meeting, Fidan met with Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty and noted Turkey's handover of the OIC Council of Foreign Ministers' rotating chairmanship to Iraq. The discussions at the OIC focused on significant issues affecting the Islamic world, particularly the Palestinian issue.
Fidan also engaged in discussions with Iraqi President Nizar Amedi, conveying Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan's greetings and congratulations on Amedi's new role. Further meetings with Iraqi Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein and Popular Mobilization Forces Commission Chairman Falih al-Fayyad touched on Iraq's political situation, regional developments, and security cooperation.
Additionally, Fidan met with Iraqi National Security Adviser Qasim al-Abboudi to discuss the implications of security cooperation. He also highlighted the role of the Iraqi Turkmen community in society and politics, emphasizing Turkey's long-term interest in their challenges.
Fidan underscored the importance of establishing a more institutionalized framework for cooperation between Turkey and Iraq, reflecting their historical, cultural, and geographical ties.