Ankara: Foreign Minister Fuad Hassan confirmed that discussions with the Turkish side achieved two main goals, one long-term and the other short-term.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, the discussions, which began two years ago, have led to significant progress in areas of mutual interest between Iraq and Turkey. The long-term goal focuses on a draft framework agreement concerning water management and the involvement of Turkish government and companies in this sector. Hassan expressed optimism about signing the agreement soon and invited his Turkish counterpart, Hakan Fidan, to Baghdad for the official signing.

The short-term goal, as outlined by Hassan, addresses the current drought situation in Iraq, with discussions centering on mechanisms for water release. He emphasized Iraq’s support for dialogue in the Turkish arena and expressed satisfaction with the resumption of oil exports from the Kurdistan Region via the Ceyhan pipeline, which was facilitated by an agreement between the federal and regional governments.

Moreover, regional conditions were part of the bilateral discussions, with Hassan appreciating Turkey’s involvement in the Gaza issue. He underscored that resolving regional tensions requires dialogue and negotiations.

Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan highlighted the efforts of the joint committee, which has been operational for two years, aiming to reform water resource distribution and revive joint projects. He emphasized the brotherly spirit and mutual trust with which Iraq and Turkey exchange figures and data.

Fidan further elaborated on the cooperation between the two nations in energy and trade sectors, noting that reaching full oil export capacity will bolster the economic partnership. He also expressed Ankara’s interest in Iraq’s initiatives to stabilize Syria, praising Baghdad’s efforts in managing the situation at the al-Hol camp.