PM meets Turkish defense minister
Al-Sudani rejects use of Iraqi territory to settle scores
BAGHDAD — Prime Minister Mohammed Shiaa’ Al-Sudani on Tuesday rejected attempts by external parties to settle regional issues on Iraqi soil, adding that his government would also not allow armed groups to attack neighboring countries from within its territory.
Al-Sudani’s remarks came during a meeting with Turkish Defense Minister Yaşar Güler.
A readout of the meeting from Al-Sudani’s office stated:
Prime Minister Mohammed S. Al-Sudani met the Minister of National Defense of Türkiye, Mr. Yaşar Güler, accompanied by the Chief of the General Staff of the Turkish Armed Forces on Tuesday morning.
During the meeting, discussions focused on relations between the two neighboring countries and underscored the importance of enhancing bilateral security cooperation to foster the security and stability of both nations.
Prime Minister Al-Sudani emphasized the interdependence of Iraq and Türkiye’s security, as well as neighboring countries. He highlighted the significance of such visits in fostering greater coordination and understanding between the two nations in supporting security and stability efforts.
His Excellency underscored Iraq’s commitment to national constitutional principles that prohibit the use of Iraqi territory to launch attacks on neighboring countries. He highlighted numerous measures taken in this regard, particularly along the border strip between Iraq and Türkiye. Simultaneously, he emphasized Iraq’s rejection of any infringement on its sovereignty and any attempts to settle scores on its soil.
Prime Minister Al-Sudani also emphasized the significance of security in Syria, as it is interconnected with the national security of Iraq and Türkiye. He highlighted the need for coordination between the two countries to create the stability required for implementing vital projects such as the strategic Development Road. This includes projects for railways and highways linking Al-Faw Grand Port in the city of Basra to the southern Turkish border.
For his part, the Minister of National Defense of Türkiye conveyed President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan’s greetings and expressed his country’s desire to maintain cooperative relations with Iraq. He emphasized Türkiye’s keenness on joint security coordination in intelligence and combating terrorism. Additionally, he highlighted the Turkish government’s interest in the strategic Development Road Project, recognizing it as a promising initiative that fosters development and prosperity for Iraq, Türkiye, and neighboring countries.
During the meeting, discussions addressed the ongoing bloody events in the Palestinian territories, in Gaza. They highlighted [Israel’s] relentless aggression against the Palestinian people and their hindrance of ceasefire efforts. The importance of the international community and major powers was highlighted for intervening to prevent genocide and address starvation policies affecting the Palestinian people.
