In a move long-awaited by Ankara, Türkiye and Iraq have taken a significant step forward in acknowledging the Kurdistan Workers Party (PKK) as a terrorist group and both countries agreeing to collaborate in ending its activities in northern Iraq.
In a high-level meeting held in Baghdad on Thursday, which included foreign and defense ministers, intelligence heads, and other officials, they agreed to set up permanent joint committees covering counterterrorism, trade, agriculture, energy, water, health, and transportation.
The discussions also covered shared stances on regional issues and bilateral challenges. Türkiye welcomed Iraq’s move to designate the PKK as a banned organization within its borders.
According to sources, earlier talks hinted at a potential agreement on establishing a buffer zone during a military operation targeting the PKK, with ongoing negotiations also involving a possible water and energy deal.
After their meeting in Baghdad, both sides pledged to ensure the success of Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s upcoming visit to Iraq after the end of Islam’s holy fasting month of Ramadan, as per a joint statement.
They stressed the importance of Iraq’s unity, sovereignty, and territorial integrity, noting that the PKK poses a security threat to both Türkiye and Iraq, violating Iraq’s constitution by operating within its borders.
The statement mentioned discussions on regional challenges, including the ongoing Israeli aggression against Gaza, with both sides expressing support for the Palestinian cause.
Iraqi Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein described the meeting with his Turkish counterpart as “productive,” highlighting discussions on various bilateral and regional issues, including Erdogan’s upcoming visit.
He emphasized the need to strengthen cooperation in security, trade, energy, water, education, and other areas beneficial to both countries.
A statement from the Turkish side highlighted hopes for Erdogan’s upcoming “historic” visit to boost bilateral ties.
Turkish sources disclosed that an agreement was reached on the sidelines of the meeting to establish a security zone along the border, converting Turkish bases in northern Iraq into a security belt covering areas where the PKK operates, including Mount Qandil.
The agreement also includes extending Turkish military operations against the PKK southward to Asos, about 200 kilometers from the Turkish border.
