Foreign Minister: We Discussed with the Turkish Side the Possibility of Resuming the Work of the 2009 Memorandum of Understanding to Exempt Citizens of Both Countries from Entry Visas, and Turkey Affirms Support for Iraq to Achieve Security and Stability

Foreign Minister Mr. Fuad Hussein met with his Turkish counterpart, Mr. Mevlut Cavusoglu, the two sides held talks that focused on bilateral relations, and ways to enhance them in a way that serves the interests of the two friendly countries.

They also discussed regional issues of interest to the two countries, including the situation in Syria, where Minister Fuad Hussein stated that “The Iraqi policy is clear towards Syria and we are working for the independence of Syria and ensuring security, because the Syrian situation affects the Iraqi situation and we raised the issue of having an Iraqi representative in meetings concerning the Syrian situation.

The two sides also touched on the Iranian-US relations as they are reflected in the region and Iraq, explaining that we will discuss with Iran eliminating tension from our country and the region.

Regarding the dispute between the State of Qatar and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the Minister explained, “We also discussed the Gulf situation and the Gulf reconciliation. We have a position in this regard. Our relations with the parties are good and we call for reconciliation.”

As for the position of the PKK, the Minister stressed that “From the security point of view we have a clear position as the Iraqi constitution does not allow any organization to operate from Iraqi land against neighboring countries, indicating that we are committed to our constitution and we view any activity against neighboring countries, including Turkey, is considered against our constitution and this comes in line with a approach to which the Foreign Ministry is devoted to promoting balance and ensuring positive neutrality in a way that guarantees the stability of Iraq.