US envoy welcomes Iraq-Turkey water deal as step toward regional cooperation

BAGHDAD — Mark Savaya, the U.S. Special Envoy to Iraq, publicly welcomed the new water‑management deal between Iraq and Turkey, describing it as “a significant step toward enhancing regional cooperation and ensuring sustainable access to vital water resources, which are crucial to the livelihoods of millions of Iraqis affected by drought and water scarcity.”

On Nov. 2, both countries signed an executive mechanism for their water cooperation agreement in Baghdad, attended by Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani and Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan.

In his statement on X, Savaya wrote: “Congratulations to both nations. […] I commend the Government of Iraq and applaud the agreement reached between the Republic of Iraq and the Republic of Turkey to address ongoing water management issues between the two nations.”

Iraq is facing its most severe water crisis in 80 years, with reserves at historic lows following another weak rainy season. Officials have attributed the shortages to climate change, prolonged drought, and upstream dam construction in Turkey and Iran.

He added: “The US reaffirms its strong commitment to supporting Iraq and its people in their pursuit of greater stability, prosperity, and a sustainable environment.”

The officials described the agreement as a step toward major joint projects to address Iraq’s worsening water crisis.

The agreement outlines a series of practical steps for cooperation between Iraq’s Ministry of Water Resources, Ministry of Construction, Housing, and Municipalities, local governorates, and Turkish partners. It identifies four main areas of focus: improving water quality and stopping river pollution, modernizing irrigation systems, rehabilitating agricultural lands, and enhancing governance in water management and conservation.