Iraqi Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi is embarking on a significant visit to Turkiye, marking his first diplomatic engagement with the neighboring nation since taking office in May. This high-level visit aims to enhance “strategic cooperation” and address critical issues including security, water management, and economic partnerships, according to government spokesperson Haider al-Aboudi.
Over the last decade, the prospects of Iraqi-Turkish relations have fluctuated; however, they remain a focal point of collaboration for both countries, especially for Iraq which relies heavily on oil and water resources. The geopolitical landscape has shifted notably since the start of the US-Israel conflict with Iran, which has underscored the importance of Turkiye as a key ally. Baghdad is actively seeking to ramp up oil exports through the Turkish pipeline, a move that becomes essential amidst the ongoing uncertainties surrounding the Strait of Hormuz.
During this visit, one of the key objectives is to finalize an oil pipeline agreement that will facilitate the export of Iraqi oil. With the previous deal having recently expired, an Iraqi technical delegation traveled to Ankara to negotiate a potential one-year extension of the existing agreement until a new contract can be reached. There is recognition of the complexities involved; reports from Iraq’s Ministry of Oil indicate that the terms proposed by Turkiye may be challenging for Iraq to accept, as they seek significant increases in charges per barrel and minimum export capacities.
Al-Zaidi’s agenda also emphasizes broadening energy partnerships and establishing new export routes for Iraqi crude through both Turkiye and Syria, extending towards the Mediterranean Sea. Earlier this month, Iraq secured energy deals worth an estimated 0 billion with American companies, highlighting the government’s commitment to enhancing its oil and gas production while diversifying its export options. Iraqi Oil Minister Basim Khudair has stressed the urgent need for new channels that bypass the challenges posed by the Strait of Hormuz.
Beyond energy discussions, al-Zaidi intends to foster robust trade and development ties, drawing upon Turkiye’s diverse industrial expertise. A notable initiative under consideration is the Development Route, a vital transport project designed to link Iraq’s al-Fao port to the Turkish-Syrian border via a comprehensive network of railways and highways. Although there have been challenges due to security issues, including ongoing threats from armed groups, the potential for transformative economic partnerships remains significant.
Water management will also feature prominently in discussions, as Iraq seeks to address its water flow concerns connected to infrastructure projects undertaken by Turkey. The situation’s complexity is compounded by sensitive security issues, particularly the presence of Turkish forces in Iraq, aimed at mitigating cross-border threats from designated groups.
Despite existing challenges, there exists a strong desire within Iraq to deepen ties with Turkiye, as many view this partnership as essential for serving the nation’s broader national interests. Political science experts underline the importance of this relationship in terms of facilitating oil exports and fostering stability in the region.
Al-Zaidi’s visit symbolizes a critical step in strengthening bilateral ties and pursuing shared goals, which are pivotal to Iraq’s future development and economic landscape.
#MiddleEastNews #PoliticsNews