In a recent announcement, Türkiye’s Parliament Speaker, Numan Kurtulmuş, emphasized the potential impact of a forthcoming disarmament initiative targeting the PKK and its affiliates. This process, anticipated to commence next month, is seen as a significant step towards bolstering stability in Iraq and aiding broader regional peace efforts. Kurtulmuş shared these insights during a meeting with Iraqi Parliament Speaker Heybet Halbusi in Ankara, underscoring that the initiative could also enhance security conditions in neighboring Syria.
Kurtulmuş connected the disarmament process to Türkiye’s wider campaign for a “terror-free Türkiye” and a “terror-free region.” He called for increased collaboration among neighboring countries to overcome long-standing divisions. Highlighting the strengthening ties between Türkiye and Iraq, he referenced several agreements and memorandums that were established during President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan’s visit to Iraq planned for 2024, as well as subsequent strategic agreements following the Iraqi prime minister’s visit to Türkiye in July.
The Development Road Project emerged as another focal point of cooperation between the two nations. This planned transport corridor aims to enhance connectivity between Asia and Europe, traversing through Iraq and Türkiye. Kurtulmuş expressed Türkiye’s full support for expediting the project, which is expected to boost economic growth across the region. He described it as more than just an economic venture, but as an initiative that could foster connections among communities, cities, and cultures through mutually beneficial cooperation.
Türkiye’s proactive approach to fostering regional stability and economic collaboration reflects its commitment to addressing complex security challenges and promoting peace. Kurtulmuş’s remarks underscore the importance of regional partnerships in achieving these goals, with disarmament and strategic infrastructure projects at the forefront of these efforts.