Baghdad: Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammad Shia’ Al Sudani reaffirmed Iraq’s readiness to coordinate with neighboring countries, especially Turkiye, on regional developments, stressing Iraq’s stance against Syria becoming a conflict zone.

According to Qatar News Agency, Al Sudani met with Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan to discuss bilateral relations and a range of regional and international issues of mutual concern, particularly the situation in Syria.

Iraqi Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein and his Turkish counterpart both highlighted the importance of continued coordination to ensure security of both countries and the region. The two ministers held a joint press conference in Baghdad today following their talks, which also addressed several key regional issues, including the situation in Syria.

Hussein explained that Iraq and Turkiye have been in regular contact with the new administration in Damascus to coordinate on various shared matters.

He added that discussions with his Turkish counterpart also focused on the implementation of agreements signed during Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s recent visit to Iraq.

For his part, Fidan commended Iraq’s efforts and its committed approach to maintaining security, which, he noted, positively affects Turkiye. He also reiterated Turkiye’s support for key projects in Iraq.

On economic cooperation, the Turkish minister noted that trade between the two countries had reached USD 20 billion, with potential for even greater figures by “removing some artificial barriers”.