Iraq and Turkey agree to enhance economic and trade relations

BAGHDAD, August 29 — The Ministry of Trade announced on Tuesday that Iraq and Turkey have reached an agreement to activate joint committees between the two countries to increase trade  volume and strengthen economic relations.

A statement from the Ministry’s press office, said:

Today, Tuesday, a joint meeting was held between the Ministry of Trade, the Iraqi private sector, and a Turkish delegation at the ministry’s headquarters to discuss ways to develop and enhance economic, trade, and investment relations, as well as overcome obstacles between the two countries in a manner that serves the interests of both neighboring nations.

The official statement from the Ministry of Trade indicated that Mr. Athir Al-Ghariri, the Minister of Trade, headed discussions on the Iraqi side, while Mr. Omer Bolat, his Turkish counterpart, led the discussions on the Turkish side. The meeting was attended by a number of senior ministry officials, heads of chambers of commerce, and Turkish businessmen.

During the meeting, the Minister emphasized, “We have received instructions from the Prime Minister to overcome all obstacles hindering the development of trade, economic, and investment relations with Turkey. We aim to create a business-friendly environment and expand the scope of trade to broader horizons that translate into reality and serve mutual interests.”

He further stressed the importance of Turkish companies entering investment projects in various industries, services, and other areas needed by the Iraqi market. This will promote and develop relationships and increase trade volume, aligning with the government’s direction in this regard.

Al-Ghariri highlighted that the number of registered Turkish companies in Iraq is the highest among other countries. We are committed to facilitating, overcoming obstacles, and implementing the agreements signed on the ground, which serve the progress of bilateral relations between Iraq and Turkey.

For his part, the Turkish Minister of Trade, Mr. Omer Bolat, affirmed, We are determined to elevate Turkish-Iraqi relations to higher levels in various fields, including trade, investment, contracting, and exploring ways to develop bilateral ties. We will consider tangible steps to enhance trade and mutual investments between Ankara and Baghdad.

Both sides agreed to activate joint committees, implement signed agreements, overcome obstacles, increase the volume of trade, and enhance mutual investments.