Baghdad – Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani reaffirmed Iraq’s commitment to regional peace during his recent visit to Turkey. He made it clear that no party may use Iraqi land to attack neighboring countries. This strong message came during a joint press conference with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan.
Al-Sudani highlighted the deep historical and social bonds between Iraq and Turkey. He stressed that this visit builds on the momentum of the Turkish President’s previous trip to Baghdad. The leaders focused on strengthening political, economic, and security ties between the two nations.
Al-Sudani outlined the pillars of the Iraq-Turkey relationship, especially in the fight against terrorism. Both countries face threats from the same violent groups. He repeated Iraq’s firm stance on the Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK), which is banned under Iraqi law. Iraq, he said, will not tolerate violations of its sovereignty. No party may use Iraqi land to attack neighboring countries, he insisted once again.
The leaders also addressed the urgent water crisis affecting both countries. Al-Sudani announced nine water-related projects now moving forward under the Water Framework Agreement. These projects include new water harvesting dams and treatment plants to improve resource management.
Another major topic was the Development Road project. Al-Sudani called it a turning point in regional cooperation. The project promises to connect Iraq with Turkey and other countries through a modern transport and trade network. This effort includes the formation of an independent body to manage the project and attract investors.
Al-Sudani mentioned that ten new agreements were signed during the visit. These cover areas like migration, education, disaster response, judicial collaboration, and defense training. He welcomed the idea of Turkish factories partnering with Iraqi industries in new industrial cities.
He ended his remarks by stressing shared positions on regional issues, especially the crisis in Palestine. He also emphasized the importance of Syria’s unity and the inclusion of all its communities in a political process. Iraq continues to support the five-party mechanism for countering ISIS in the region.
Through clear policies, mutual respect, and focused cooperation, both nations aim for lasting peace and prosperity. No party may use Iraqi land to attack neighboring countries—this remains Iraq’s firm commitment to its neighbors and the world.
