Former Turkish PM Davutoğlu: "Kurdistan Region is bridge between Turkey and Iraq"
"Either we will together succeed, in peace, in economic development, or we will lose together. Everybody must focus on success together. Win-win," Davutoğlu emphasized, underlining his vision for regional cooperation.
Nov. 19, 2024
ERBIL (Kurdistan 24) – Former Turkish Prime Minister Ahmet Davutoğlu provided an extensive and warm assessment of Turkey's relationship with the Kurdistan Region, emphasizing strategic partnerships, historical bonds, and future potential during an exclusive interview with Kurdistan24's Farhad Rasool, while announcing his upcoming visit to the region.
Strategic Importance
Davutoğlu, who served as both Prime Minister and Foreign Minister of Turkey, characterized the Kurdistan Region as a vital strategic link between Turkey and Iraq. "Throughout my political career and even when I was in academic life, I always defended the best relations with Kurdistan Region in Iraq, because this is a bridge for Turkey to Iraq," he stated.
Historical Diplomatic Initiatives
The former premier highlighted significant diplomatic achievements during his tenure, particularly a groundbreaking 2013 initiative that brought together regional governance structures. "When I was minister of foreign affairs, I invited Mr.
Nechirvan Barzani to Van with 4 governors of Kurdistan Region. And with 4 governors of Turkey, we had a joint meeting," he recalled, emphasizing how this unprecedented gathering addressed common economic interests and regional challenges.
Security Cooperation
Regarding regional security, Davutoğlu outlined potential roles for Kurdistan Region in establishing peace. "If one day the violent terrorist activities should be stopped, it should be stopped in Kurdistan region in Qandil. So the role of Kurdish security forces there, Peshmerga and others, is important to cooperate with Turkish security," he explained.
Personal Connections
The former prime minister spoke warmly about his personal connections to the region, particularly highlighting his relationship with Kurdish leaders. "I am grateful to Masoud Barzani... When I had an accident, elevator accident in 1, 2 years ago, he called me. He asked my help. So we have always good messages, exchanges," he shared.
Cultural Bonds
Davutoğlu expressed a deep personal affinity for Kurdistan Region's cities, describing them as extensions of his homeland. "When I went to Erbil, whenever I go, I always would prefer to go to bazaar, Erbil Bazaar... everybody knows me. They follow Turkey very well, and some speak Turkish. So I feel it is my, of course, it is an Iraqi city, a Kurdish City, but I feel myself Erbili."
Future Vision
The veteran politician emphasized the necessity of regional cooperation for mutual success: "Either we will together succeed, in peace, in economic development, or we will lose together. Everybody must focus on success together. Win-win."
Upcoming Visit
Announcing his imminent return to the region, Davutoğlu expressed enthusiasm about visiting after an extended absence. "Next week, I will be going to Duhok for an international conference, and I will be, after many years, 6, 7 years, 8 years, I will be back to Erbil, Duhok... I missed Erbil. I missed Sulaimani. I missed Duhok and Zakho and everybody."
Message to Kurdistan
Concluding with a message to Kurdistan Region's people, Davutoğlu emphasized the fraternal nature of Turkish-Kurdish relations: "Turkey is not your enemy, your rival. And you are not our rival, as well. We had a very peaceful history, success stories. We can create success stories again."
He further reinforced this message by stating, "I don't see any difference between Erbil and Diyarbakir, Erbil and Istanbul, Istanbul and Baghdad."
Analysis
Davutoğlu's comments reflect a comprehensive understanding of Kurdistan Region's importance that spans:
- Strategic value as a regional bridge
- Economic partnership potential
- Security cooperation opportunities
- Cultural and historical connections
- Personal diplomatic relationships
His emphasis on direct engagement and mutual success suggests a vision for Turkish-Kurdish relations based on partnership rather than rivalry, marking a notable perspective from a significant figure in Turkish politics.
The former prime minister's upcoming visit to the region and his expressed nostalgia for its cities indicate a continuing commitment to maintaining and strengthening these relationships, even after leaving his official positions in the Turkish government.
Updated: Nov. 19, 2024 - 12:30 PM
