Turkish President Erdogan Visits Iraq: Water, Oil, and Regional Security on the Agenda
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan is set to make his first state visit to Iraq in years, with a focus on crucial issues such as water management, oil exports, and regional security. The visit comes at a time of escalating tensions in the region, with conflicts in Gaza and between Israel and Iran adding to the complexity of the situation.
Water Management and Resources
One of the key topics of discussion during Erdogan’s visit will be the sharing of water resources between Iraq and Turkey. Baghdad has raised concerns about upstream dams constructed by Turkey on the Tigris and Euphrates rivers, which have exacerbated water scarcity in Iraq. Erdogan has acknowledged the importance of addressing these issues and expressed a willingness to work towards a resolution.
Oil Exports and Economic Cooperation
Another point of contention is Iraqi oil exports, with a major pipeline shut down for over a year due to legal disputes and technical issues. The autonomous Kurdistan region had been independently selling oil through Turkey without Baghdad’s approval, resulting in significant revenue losses for Iraq. Efforts are underway to resume oil exports via Turkey and strengthen economic ties between the two countries.
Infrastructure Development and Economic Ties
The “Route of Development” project, a $17 billion road and rail initiative spanning 1,200 kilometers across Iraq, aims to enhance economic cooperation between Turkey and Iraq. By connecting the northern border with Turkey to the Gulf in the south, the project is expected to bolster trade and investment opportunities between the two neighbors.
Regional Security Concerns
Security issues, particularly related to the presence of Turkish military bases in northern Iraq targeting the Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK), will also be on the agenda. While Turkey has sought increased cooperation from Baghdad in its fight against the PKK, concerns have been raised about the impact of military operations on bilateral relations. Discussions on border security and preventing armed groups from infiltrating the border will be crucial during Erdogan’s visit.
Expectations and Agreements
Iraqi officials anticipate the signing of memoranda of understanding and a strategic framework agreement covering security, economy, and development. The focus will be on addressing shared challenges and fostering cooperation in key areas of mutual interest. While differences remain on certain issues, both countries are committed to finding common ground and strengthening their relationship.
In conclusion, Erdogan’s visit to Iraq marks an important step in addressing critical issues facing the two nations. By engaging in constructive dialogue and seeking solutions to longstanding challenges, Turkey and Iraq have an opportunity to enhance their cooperation and build a more stable and prosperous future for the region.