Istanbul: Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Fuad Hussein met with Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan to discuss developments in the ongoing war on Iran and bilateral issues concerning water and oil exports. The meeting took place on the sidelines of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) foreign ministers’ meeting.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, the dialogue focused on reviewing the latest regional developments, particularly the escalation from the war on Iran and the targeting of nuclear facilities that occurred on Sunday morning. Both ministers emphasized the necessity of enhancing joint cooperation to limit the conflict’s expansion and highlighted the need for political and diplomatic initiatives to contain the crisis and prevent further escalation.

In terms of bilateral relations, Fuad Hussein addressed the issue of water releases into Iraq, pointing out the significant decrease in water quantities from Turkey. Minister Hakan Fidan committed to addressing this matter with the relevant Turkish authorities to protect the interests of both nations.

Additionally, discussions were held on Iraqi oil exports via Turkey. Fuad Hussein underscored the urgency of accelerating technical and administrative coordination to resume oil pumping through the Turkish port of Ceyhan, stressing its critical impact on Iraq’s economy amidst regional threats and challenges. He reiterated Iraq’s readiness to cooperate fully to enhance mutual interests.