Turkish CG: Sulaimani Flight Ban Not Politically Driven
“The reason for Türkiye’s policy toward Sulaimani Airport is purely a matter of security concerns. It has absolutely nothing to do with our brothers in Sulaimani. This is an administrative issue,” he explained.
By Kamaran Aziz
ERBIL (Kurdistan24) – Türkiye’s Consul General in the Kurdistan Region, Erman Topçu, has firmly denied allegations that Ankara’s continued suspension of Turkish airspace for flights to and from Sulaimani International Airport is politically motivated. He also pledged efforts to ease visa procedures for Iraqis and residents of the Kurdistan Region.
In an exclusive interview with Kurdistan24’s Azer Farooq, Topçu addressed key topics including Türkiye’s stance on Sulaimani, bilateral ties, tourism, and the recent aviation ban.
On the Sulaimani Airport Ban
Topçu emphasized Türkiye’s enduring connection with Sulaimani, stating: “Sulaimani is a historically important city for us. We’ve always maintained relations with Sulaimani. I can sincerely say that the people of Sulaimani are our brothers. We have never had a negative stance toward the city. On this matter, we have always been transparent and clear.”
Addressing the suspension of flights, he clarified that Türkiye’s position stems solely from security concerns.
“The reason for Türkiye’s policy toward Sulaimani Airport is purely a matter of security concerns. It has absolutely nothing to do with our brothers in Sulaimani. This is an administrative issue,” he explained.
He further stressed: “Türkiye has certain expectations. If those expectations are met and the security concerns are addressed, I am confident that an agreement can be reached regarding the airport. This matter should not be politicized. It must be viewed with a clear understanding of the situation. I reiterate once again: we have never had and never will have any hostile stance toward Sulaimani or its citizens.”
On Tourism and Visa Facilitation
Speaking on tourism between Iraq and Türkiye, Topçu highlighted the strong relationship between the two populations.
“Last year, Türkiye welcomed 62 million tourists, nearly one million of whom were Iraqi citizens. Of course, this includes many of our dear friends and brothers from the Kurdistan Region. Iraq ranks among the top 10 countries whose citizens most frequently visit Türkiye,” he said.
He noted that Türkiye is actively working to streamline the visa process for Iraqis and residents of the Kurdistan Region.
“As is known, we currently grant visas to individuals aged between 15 and 50. Iraqi citizens can visit authorized private visa companies in Erbil, Sulaimani, and Duhok, and by meeting the necessary requirements, obtain their visas quickly and efficiently,” ne added.
Topçu affirmed that staff at the Turkish consulate are working tirelessly to ensure smooth processing. “Our goal is to encourage more citizens to visit Türkiye,” he concluded.
The interview underscores Türkiye’s intention to strengthen ties with the Kurdistan Region and Iraq, while addressing complex issues such as airspace access and mobility through administrative, rather than political, channels.
Kurdistan24's correspondent Abdusalam Tutenchi and Azer Farooq contributed to this report.
