Iraq and Turkiye stand on the brink of revitalizing their bilateral relations as Iraqi Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi embarks on his inaugural trip to Turkiye. This visit, marked by the potential for strategic collaboration in areas like energy and water management, comes at a crucial time when regional dynamics are reshaping the geopolitical landscape in the Middle East. Enhanced ties not only promise economic benefits but also serve as a stabilizing force in a region marked by uncertainty.
Iraqi Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi is leading a high-level delegation to Turkiye, marking his first official visit to the neighboring nation since assuming office in May. Accompanied by a cadre of ministers and senior officials, al-Zaidi’s discussions during this pivotal trip will focus on enhancing “strategic cooperation” between the two countries, addressing key issues related to security, water resources, and economic collaboration, according to government spokesman Haider al-Aboudi.
Over the past decade, relations between Iraq and Turkiye have experienced fluctuations, yet they remain a priority for both nations, particularly for Iraq as it navigates challenges involving oil and water resources. The evolving geopolitical landscape, accentuated by the US-Israel war against Iran earlier this year and the subsequent closure of the Strait of Hormuz, has significantly elevated Turkiye’s strategic importance to Baghdad. In this context, Iraq is keen to persuade Turkish authorities to increase the volume of oil exports through the Iraq-Turkiye pipeline, which has faced interruptions in recent years.
One of the primary objectives during al-Zaidi’s visit is to finalize a new oil pipeline agreement to govern the export of Iraqi oil, especially following the expiration of the previous deal. A source from Iraq’s Ministry of Oil revealed that a technical delegation arrived in Ankara to finalize a one-year extension of the old agreement until a new one is in place. However, the source highlighted that the new terms proposed by Turkiye are stringent, raising concerns about their acceptance by the Iraqi government. Turkiye is reportedly seeking an increase in the fee for oil exports, which may pose challenges for negotiations.
Al-Zaidi’s agenda also includes exploring new energy deals and securing alternative routes for exporting Iraqi crude through Turkiye and Syria to the Mediterranean Sea. Recently, Iraq secured energy deals worth an estimated 0 billion with American companies during al-Zaidi’s visit to the United States, reflecting its goal to enhance oil and gas production while diversifying export options. Iraqi Oil Minister Basim Khudair underscored the urgency of identifying new export channels outside the Strait of Hormuz, as current conditions no longer meet Iraq’s evolving needs.
Furthermore, al-Zaidi aims to strengthen trade and economic ties, seeking to leverage Turkish expertise across various industries. A prominent focus will be the Development Route—a crucial transport initiative designed to connect Iraq’s al-Fao port in the south to the Iraqi-Turkiye-Syria border via an extensive rail and highway network spanning 1,200 kilometers. While this project holds great potential, challenges persist, particularly due to ongoing instability caused by armed groups.
Water management is another critical facet expected to dominate al-Zaidi’s discussions in Turkiye. Iraq has expressed concerns regarding Turkish dam constructions that have altered the natural flow of the Tigris and Euphrates rivers, key lifelines for millions of Iraqis. This water issue is seen as vital to Iraq’s future and regional stability.
Perhaps the most complex topic on the agenda is security, particularly concerning the Turkish military presence in Iraq, aimed at combating the Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK), designated as a terrorist organization by Turkiye, the US, and the EU. Military estimates suggest that Turkiye maintains numerous military bases across Iraqi provinces, housing thousands of soldiers and significant armaments. Despite certain tensions, there is a notable desire among Iraqis to enhance relations with Turkiye, recognizing the importance of these ties for national interests and energy security.
Political analysts suggest that while al-Zaidi’s ambitions to cultivate a stronger partnership with Turkiye are evident, the political climate in Iraq, influenced by power struggles and external rivalries, may complicate these efforts. Observers emphasize that a successful visit hinges on al-Zaidi’s ability to navigate the intricate dynamics at play in the region. Strong cooperation with Turkiye could provide Iraq with crucial support in its energy sector and beyond, further solidifying the relationship between these neighboring nations.
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