Turkish Defense Delegation Engages in Key Talks with Kurdish Authorities in Erbil on Border Security
Turkish Minister of National Defense Yaşar Güler and Chief of the Turkish General Staff, Metin Gürak, embarked on a diplomatic mission to Erbil, where they were warmly received by Kurdistan Region Minister of Peshmerga Affairs Shorish Ismael and Safeen Dizayee, the head of the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) Foreign Relations Department, alongside other senior Kurdish officials.
Their visit to Erbil followed high-level meetings in Baghdad earlier the same day, where they engaged with Iraqi President and Prime Minister on matters concerning bilateral security and cooperation. Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia' Al Sudani, in a significant announcement during these discussions, emphasized the necessity for resolving border and security issues between the two nations through mutual cooperation and coordination.
The @KRG_MOPE Minister In the presence of deputy minister and chief of staff received the #Turkish Defense Minister and the Turkish military chief of staff at #Erbil International Airport. pic.twitter.com/TTnAIPI7o2
— Ministry of Peshmerga (@KRG_MOPE) February 6, 2024
Prime Minister Sudani assured the Turkish delegation that Iraqi territory would not pose a threat to Turkey or neighboring countries. He underscored Iraq's commitment to securing its borders with Turkey, highlighting the implementation of various measures aimed at bolstering security.
On the Turkish side, Minister Güler conveyed his nation's commitment to nurturing strong bilateral relations, safeguarding its borders, and implementing robust security measures, particularly in the domains of intelligence and counterterrorism.
Concurrently, Ibrahim Kalın, Director of the National Intelligence Organization of Turkey, conducted parallel diplomatic engagements with officials in Baghdad and Erbil. His discussions aimed at further enhancing cooperation between Turkey and Iraq, as well as fostering ties with Kurdish authorities.
These diplomatic exchanges underscore the shared commitment of Turkey and Iraq to address mutual security concerns, promote stability in the region, and deepen bilateral cooperation for the collective benefit of both nations.
