Iraqi PM visits Turkiye to boost ties despite complex challenges
Summary
Iraqi Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi visited Turkiye to improve cooperation on security, water, and economic issues, including oil exports. The two countries are negotiating a new oil pipeline agreement and exploring ways to boost trade and infrastructure projects despite challenges.Key Facts
- This is Iraqi Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi’s first visit to Turkiye since taking office in May.
- The visit focuses on strategic cooperation, especially on security, water management, and economic ties.
- Iraq and Turkiye are working on a new oil-export deal after the previous one expired; Turkiye wants higher fees and a minimum export volume.
- Iraq aims to find new oil export routes through Turkiye and Syria to avoid reliance on the Strait of Hormuz.
- Iraq recently signed energy deals worth $200 billion with U.S. companies to increase oil and gas production.
- A major transport project called the Development Route would connect Iraq’s southern port to the Turkiye-Syria border via rail and highways but has faced delays due to security issues.
- Water issues are a concern, as Iraq accuses Turkiye of building dams that reduce water flow to Iraqi rivers.
- Iraq wants to benefit from Turkish expertise in energy, infrastructure, and transport to support its development plans.
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