The anticipated disarmament process involving the PKK and its affiliates is expected to bolster stability in Iraq and support peace efforts across the region, according to Türkiye’s Parliament Speaker Numan Kurtulmuş. During a meeting in Ankara with Iraqi Parliament Speaker Heybet Halbusi, Kurtulmuş emphasized that the initiative, set to commence next month, could significantly enhance peace and security in both Iraq and Syria.
Kurtulmuş connected this disarmament initiative to Türkiye’s larger vision of creating a “terror-free Türkiye” and a “terror-free region.” He urged for increased cooperation among regional countries to overcome longstanding divisions. Furthermore, he underscored the strengthening of Türkiye-Iraq relations, noting the agreements and memorandums forged during President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan’s visit to Iraq in 2024 and the subsequent strategic agreements following the Iraqi prime minister’s visit to Türkiye in July.
Another critical aspect of the Türkiye-Iraq collaboration is the Development Road Project, which aims to establish a transport corridor enhancing connectivity between Asia and Europe through Iraq and Türkiye. Kurtulmuş described this project as not only an economic endeavor but also an opportunity to connect communities, cities, and cultures through mutually beneficial cooperation. He reiterated Türkiye’s commitment to accelerating the project to ensure its components become operational swiftly.
By emphasizing these initiatives, Kurtulmuş highlighted Türkiye’s commitment to fostering regional stability and economic growth. The disarmament process and the Development Road Project are seen as pivotal in driving peace and development in the region, aligning with Türkiye’s broader strategic objectives.