Turkey and Iraq recently made significant strides in their diplomatic relations concerning security arrangements in northern Iraq. Following discussions at the United Nations General Assembly in New York, both nations expressed their commitment to enhancing cooperation on security matters. This agreement potentially lays the groundwork for a more stable region and marks a pivotal moment in their bilateral relations.
Agreement on Military Withdrawal
In a joint statement, Iraqi Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi and Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan revealed their plan for a gradual transfer of military control. Turkish forces will begin to hand over the Bashiqa-Zelikan base—situated near Mosul—to the Iraqi government. This decision is part of a broader strategy to reinforce state authority in the Sinjar region and eliminate the presence of outlawed armed groups, particularly Kurdish militants associated with the Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK).
This military withdrawal is expected to occur in phases, with completion anticipated by the end of the year. While the specific timeline remains unconfirmed by Turkish officials, the Iraqi military has expressed its confidence in the outlined plan. The two nations appear to be working collaboratively toward a more peaceful and secure future in the area.
Turkey’s Ongoing Peace Process
Turkey’s initiative to end armed conflict with the PKK has been ongoing for several years, with aspirations to disarm the militant group and put an end to a violent struggle that has spanned decades. The recent talks signify Turkey’s determination to engage in peace talks while maintaining essential security measures in the region. The presence of Turkish troops in Iraq was initially justified as a protective measure against the rise of the Islamic State (IS) in 2015, which had taken control of Mosul a year earlier.
However, this military deployment sparked tensions with the Iraqi government, which demanded the withdrawal of Turkish forces. Despite these disputes, Turkey has maintained various military bases in Iraq, asserting that the operations are crucial for its national security.
Emphasis on Bilateral Relations
Along with security discussions, the conversations encompassed broader topics such as trade and economic agreements between Turkey and Iraq. Both leaders acknowledged the urgency of implementing previously signed treaties and emphasized the importance of speeding up strategic projects that can foster bilateral growth. U.S. Ambassador Tom Barrack also endorsed the recent agreement, emphasizing that both Iraqi sovereignty and Turkey’s security needs were being addressed.
The collaboration between Turkey and Iraq signals a hopeful turn in regional relations. A concerted effort to address security concerns, alongside economic cooperation, could yield significant benefits for both nations and contribute to stability in an otherwise volatile region. As talks progress, the focus on building a cooperative relationship holds promise for future engagements in areas such as trade, security, and infrastructure development.