Politics

Kurdistan Region President, Turkish President discuss trade, regional stability

The leaders emphasized expanding Turkey's trade and investment opportunities in both Iraq and the Kurdistan Region. Turkish job creation, private sector engagement, and investment in various sectors were highlighted as key areas for future cooperation.

Kurdistan Region President Nechirvan Barzani (left) during his meeting with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, Oct. 16, 2024. (Photo: Kurdistan Region Presidency)
Kurdistan Region President Nechirvan Barzani (left) during his meeting with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, Oct. 16, 2024. (Photo: Kurdistan Region Presidency)
Kurdistan Nechirvan Barzani Recep Tayyip Erdogan Turkey-Kurdistan Region relations

ERBIL (Kurdistan24) — Kurdistan Region President Nechirvan Barzani met with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan in Ankara on Wednesday to discuss strengthening bilateral relations, particularly in the economic sphere, according to a statement from the Kurdistan Region Presidency.

The leaders emphasized expanding Turkey's trade and investment opportunities in both Iraq and the Kurdistan Region. Turkish job creation, private sector engagement, and investment in various sectors were highlighted as key areas for future cooperation.

President Erdogan reaffirmed Turkey's commitment to continued collaboration with Iraq and the Kurdistan Region. He also emphasized the Turkish private sector's readiness to increase its presence in these areas, furthering economic ties between the nations.

The meeting also addressed pressing regional issues. Both leaders expressed deep concern over the escalating tensions in the Middle East, warning of the potential consequences for the region. They underscored the importance of collective efforts to prevent further conflict and resolve issues through peaceful means.

In addition, the discussions touched on Erbil-Baghdad relations, the strategic development road project, and broader ties between Iraq, the Kurdistan Region, and neighboring countries. They also reiterated the need for continued cooperation in the fight against terrorism, particularly in the ongoing battle against ISIS.

On April 22, Erdogan visited the Kurdistan Region and met with top Kurdish officials including the Kurdistan Region President and Prime Minister.

Read More: Erdogan, top Kurdish officials discuss enhancing coordination in trade and investment