Ankara: Iraqi Ambassador to Ankara, Majid Al-Lajmawi, engaged in discussions with Faisal Eroglu, the Turkish President’s Special Envoy to Iraq, focusing on enhancing cooperation on water issues and facilitating residency grants for Iraqi citizens.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, the Iraqi Embassy in Turkey released a statement revealing that Ambassador Al-Lajmawi congratulated Eroglu on his new appointment and emphasized the importance of sustained coordination between the two nations on bilateral issues. The statement highlighted discussions on strengthening bilateral relations and developing them in various fields for the benefit of both countries.

Ambassador Al-Lajmawi underscored the critical nature of the water issue in Iraq-Turkey relations, expressing Iraq’s aim for a strategic partnership that ensures mutual rights. He detailed Iraq’s efforts in adopting modern irrigation technologies and sustainable water management practices. The discussions included a review of Iraq’s water situation and the declining water levels from Turkey.

A telephone call was arranged between Iraq’s Minister of Water Resources, Aoun Diab Abdullah, and Eroglu to deliberate on direct cooperation and technical exchanges regarding Iraq’s water concerns. The Minister highlighted the urgent need for increased water releases from Turkey, citing the severe challenges faced by Iraq’s water sector due to reduced water inflows and rainfall.

Additionally, the meeting addressed the status of the Iraqi community in Turkey. Ambassador Al-Lajmawi advocated for easing residency procedures for Iraqis, especially students and those with humanitarian and medical permits, to bolster their stability and dignity.

Faisal Eroglu, representing Turkey, expressed readiness to cooperate fully on all discussed issues, particularly water-related matters, emphasizing the mutual strength in this area. He also acknowledged the needs of Iraqis in Turkey and stressed Turkey’s commitment to facilitating residency processes through coordination with relevant authorities.