Iraqi President Discusses Water, Border Security with Turkish Intelligence Chief

Iraqi Presidency

Iraqi President's meeting with Turkish Intelligence Chief.

Iraqi President Abdullatif Jamal Rashid received a delegation led by Ibrahim Kalin, head of Turkish National Intelligence, at Baghdad Palace on Monday, January 22, 2024.

They discussed the current state of Iraq-Türkiye relations and the importance of promoting bilateral ties. President Rashid urged for better coordination and consultation on security matters, including the fight against terrorism, in a manner that enhances security and stability in the entire region. He underscored the many commonalities between the two countries in terms of history, economy, trade, and culture, stressing that dialogue and joint action would be the most effective way to resolve outstanding issues between the two countries.

President Rashid also highlighted the importance of reaching an agreement on their dispute over water as Iraq could not continue relying on periodic water releases by Türkiye.

“There is a constant increase in our population and a continuous increase in our need for water due to the increasing population, climate change and desertification,” he said, expressing his hope that joint work could develop an understanding of the actual water needs of Iraq and Türkiye, as well as the nature of the projects being built on the Tigris and Euphrates.

He also spoke of the numerous challenges Iraq has overcome, including wars, sieges, and terrorism, as well as the sacrifices made for the sake of establishing a democratic government in Iraq. The government considers the consolidation of security and stability in Iraq as a high priority, he said, despite regular violations both within and outside the country.

The Iraqi President made it clear that Iraq and its neighbors are working to ensure that the sovereignty of every state is respected, and that unilateral actions undermining peace and security are prevented.

“It is imperative to reach an understanding with neighbors regarding border security,” he said, adding that a number of violations are being committed against the Sulaymaniyah Governorate and other cities, which have a negative impact on the relationship between the two countries. These violations must be resolved decisively within the framework of respecting the sovereignty of Iraq and the security of its citizens, said President Rashid.

On the question of Palestine, President Rashid reiterated Iraq’s full support for the Palestinian people to achieve their rights.

“Iraq stands by them in the face of ongoing aggression,” he said. “As a result of the aggression, the international community must take responsibility for protecting civilians and delivering humanitarian aid, and it is imperative that the aggression be stopped immediately.”

Ibrahim Kalin reaffirmed Türkiye's commitment to Iraq's security and stability as well as its desire to further develop bilateral relations with Iraq in all spheres, particularly in the area of security and the fight against Daesh and other terrorist organizations.

He confirmed that President Recep Tayyip Erdogan is looking forward to visiting Iraq, but his trip has been postponed due to the situation in the Gaza Strip.

Kalin said that his country is working with Iraq to implement projects that were previously signed, particularly in the field of transportation. He also that his country is eager to see Iraq receive its share of water and that joint committees have been established to address this issue.

“It is our hope that this issue will be resolved in a collaborative manner,” he said.



PUKMEDIA-Iraqi Presidency