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Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani stressed the importance of elevating Türkiye-Iraq relations beyond traditional neighborly ties during his speech at Anadolu Agency’s “FOCUS: Türkiye-Iraq Relations” forum on Thursday.
"We want Türkiye-Iraq relations to be part of the region’s stability equation, not part of confrontation," Sudani stated. He underscored the transformation of bilateral ties into a strategic relationship built on cooperation, development and mutual respect.
Calling the Development Road Project "one of the most important projects in the Middle East," Sudani reaffirmed Baghdad’s commitment to completing it swiftly. Framed as more than a transit corridor, the initiative is intended to promote regional economic integration, linking Türkiye, Iraq, Qatar, and the UAE.
"By early June, we expect tangible steps. Coordination at the ministerial level is underway and preliminary outcomes will be discussed soon," he said.
Sudani also noted interest from countries outside the core partnership, including the United States and China. "American business delegations have shown strong interest in the project," he added.
Sudani described Türkiye as one of Iraq’s principal trading partners. He emphasized cooperation in the natural gas and electricity sectors and confirmed that Turkish firms will be involved in Iraq’s long-term water infrastructure projects.
"We want to turn challenges into opportunities. Turkish firms will be central to our efforts," he said. He also highlighted cultural and educational links, stating, "Many Iraqi youth come to Türkiye for education and tourism."
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The Iraqi premier reiterated his government’s opposition to the presence of the PKK in Iraq, labeling it a "violation of sovereignty" and stressing that cross-border attacks are unconstitutional.
"The presence of the PKK on our soil is a form of exploitation," Sudani said. "We view Türkiye’s disarmament efforts as very important. We will not allow Iraqi territory to be used as a springboard for attacks on neighboring countries."
He added, "Security is a shared interest. We see Türkiye’s security, Iran’s security, and that of Arab neighbors as interconnected."
Water cooperation remains sensitive, Sudani noted, but said mutual agreements and climate factors are being jointly considered. He also spoke against foreign intervention in Syria and expressed support for the country’s territorial integrity.
"We support regional efforts for a stable Syria and call for the Syrian people to determine their own future without external interference," he said.
On the Israel-Palestine conflict, Sudani criticized Israeli actions in Gaza, calling them acts of "massacre and destruction." He added, "Unless the Palestinian issue is resolved, instability in the region will persist."
Sudani reiterated Iraq’s position as a regional observer committed to non-alignment and balance. "We do not want Iraq to become an arena for renewed conflict," he said.
Referring to upcoming elections in Iraq, Sudani stated, "Regardless of the results, all political factions agree on sustaining and enhancing relations with Türkiye."
He concluded by expressing appreciation to Türkiye, saying, "Türkiye’s people are our brothers. We’ve always had strong relations throughout history."
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