Turkey welcomes formation of Zaidi government, pledges continued support

BAGHDAD — Turkey’s Foreign Ministry on Thursday welcomed the formation of Iraq’s new government under Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi, pledging continued support for Iraq’s stability and deeper bilateral cooperation.

“We wish Prime Minister al-Zaidi success as he undertakes this critical responsibility,” the ministry said, expressing trust that the new government would “take resolute steps toward strengthening Iraq’s stability, prosperity, and integration with the region at this sensitive juncture.”

Parliament approved Zaidi’s government and ministerial program Thursday, confirming 14 ministers before the cabinet took the constitutional oath. Confidence was withheld from nominees for five ministries and voting on defense, labor, migration and youth and sports was postponed.