Nurturing Bilateral Ties and Regional Cooperation

In a remarkable diplomatic initiative aimed at strengthening bilateral ties and bolstering regional stability, Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan embarked on a diplomatic missi

Nurturing Bilateral Ties and Regional Cooperation
September 26, 2023

In a remarkable diplomatic initiative aimed at strengthening bilateral ties and bolstering regional stability, Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan embarked on a diplomatic mission to Erbil, the capital of the Kurdistan Region of Iraq (KRI), on August 24. His visit followed his recent trip to Baghdad, where he engaged in a series of meetings with his Iraqi counterpart and other high-ranking Iraqi officials, and carries substantial implications, not only for the Türkyie -KRI relationship but also for the broader geopolitical landscape of the Middle East. 

Fidan's diplomatic mission represents a positive stride in enhancing relations between Türkyie and the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG), fostering optimism for a more stable and prosperous Middle East where diplomacy and cooperation prevail over conflict and instability. His visit also highlighted Türkyie ’s revamped diplomatic strategy, reaffirming its position as a prominent regional and global actor.

Foreign Minister Fidan was received by the KRG’s Interior Minister Rebar Ahmed and other distinguished officials, and his visit marked his first official journey to both Iraq and the KRI since taking on the role of foreign minister. Following this, he participated in comprehensive meetings with the KRG President Nechirvan Barzani and Prime Minister Masrour Barzani. These meetings were dedicated to in-depth discussions on bilateral relations and the exploration of avenues for enhanced cooperation. Additionally, as part of his trip, Foreign Minister Fidan also had the privilege of meeting with former President Masoud Barzani. 

PM Masrour Barzani engages in discussions with Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan during their meeting in Erbil on August 24, 2023

In offering a warm welcome to Foreign Minister Fidan, Prime Minister Barzani emphasized the robust relationship between Erbil and Ankara and voiced a strong commitment to addressing outstanding issues between the two parties. Throughout their discussions, both Prime Minister Barzani and Foreign Minister Fidan placed notable emphasis on the significance of revitalizing the KRI’s oil exports through Türkyie 's Ceyhan port. Their focus was on expeditiously resolving any existing obstacles pertaining to this matter, as articulated in a statement from the Prime Minister's office.

In a joint press conference alongside Foreign Minister Fidan, Prime Minister Barzani remarked, “We delved into various regional matters, encompassing bilateral Iraq - Türkyie relations and our interactions with the Kurdistan Region, including the mechanisms governing the export of the KRI’s oil.”

Regarding the Ankara-Erbil bilateral relationship, Foreign Minister Fidan underscored Erbil’s enduring reputation as a secure and stable city, even during periods of unrest in Iraq. He underscored the significance of this stability and affirmed Türkyie ’s willingness to extend support to ensure its continuation.

While challenges remain, including addressing the Kurdish question in Türkyie and navigating the complex geopolitical realities of the region, the willingness to engage in meaningful dialogue marks a positive development. The visit lays the groundwork for continued negotiations and cooperation, promising far-reaching implications for the future of the Middle East.

Kurdistan Region President Nechirvan Barzani welcoming Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan in Erbil on August 24, 2023

Why Foreign Minister Fidan's visit matters

Foreign Minister Fidan's visit to Erbil is a pivotal step in ongoing diplomatic efforts to solidify ties between Türkyie  and the KRI. It bears significance for several reasons:

Diplomatic outreach: The visit underscores Türkyie ’s commitment to diplomatic engagement with its regional neighbors. While historical tensions have strained relations between Türkyie and the KRI, this visit reflects a proactive approach to dialogue and cooperation.

Regional stability: The Middle East has long been marred by instability and conflict. Foreign Minister Fidan's visit signals the willingness of Türkyie and the KRI to discuss regional security concerns and explore avenues for collaborative efforts aimed at promoting stability.

Economic collaboration: Economic ties underpin diplomacy.  Türkyie and the KRI possess the potential to bolster economic cooperation, encompassing trade, investment, and energy partnerships that can mutually benefit both parties and foster regional prosperity.

Counterterrorism cooperation: Both Türkyie and the KRI have played instrumental roles in the fight against terrorism, particularly in combatting the threat posed by groups like ISIS. Strengthening their cooperation in this regard can further degrade terrorist networks operating in the region.


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