Ankara: Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Tuesday welcomed Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Ali al-Zaidi at the Presidential Complex in Ankara. The official ceremony marked al-Zaidi's first visit to Turkey since assuming office in May, and was attended by key Turkish officials, including Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan, National Defense Minister Yasar Guler, and Energy and Natural Resources Minister Alparslan Bayraktar.

According to Anadolu Agency, the Iraqi Prime Minister emphasized the significance of the visit, which was initiated at Erdogan's invitation. Al-Zaidi highlighted the discussions would center on enhancing bilateral cooperation in areas such as investment, water resources, regional security, and major infrastructure projects.

In a message shared on the US social media platform X, Al-Zaidi expressed his intent to strengthen the political and economic ties between Iraq and Turkey. "History, geography, culture, shared interests, and everything bring us together with Turkey," he stated. The talks are expected to cover the Development Road transport project and aim to bolster regional stability.

Al-Zaidi also mentioned plans to address 'a number of economic and security dossiers' to ensure mutual benefits for both nations. The discussions reflect the strategic partnership and shared goals between the two countries in fostering regional cooperation and development.