BAGHDAD, Jan 26 (KUNA) -- Iraqi Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein stated on Sunday, that his country is in continuous contact with officials in the new administration in Damascus and is trying to coordinate with them on several common issues.
In a joint press conference with his Turkish counterpart Hakan Fidan, he mentioned that they held talks covering various bilateral and regional files, including developments in Syria, confirming that there are understandings between Baghdad and Ankara on how to deal with the new situation in Damascus.
He pointed out that they also discussed the presence of elements of the so-called Islamic State (ISIS) in the border areas between Iraq and Syria and how to coordinate in combating the organization, as well as cooperating with the new administration in Damascus on this matter.
On the other hand, the Turkish Minister stated that his country is looking forward to Iraq recognizing the Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK) as a terrorist organization.
In the same press conference with his Iraqi counterpart, he mentioned that the PKK threatens Iraqi national security, having recently killed two Iraqi soldiers.
Fidan expressed Turkiye's hope that Iraq would classify the organization as a terrorist group, having previously considered it a banned organization.
He also indicated that they addressed regional contentious issues, hoping these disputes would not lead to instability in Iraq, while praising the Iraqi government's diligent efforts and committed, constructive policies to maintain Iraq's security.
Regarding the situation in Syria, Fidan emphasized his government's significant focus on close communication between Iraq and the new administration in Syria, stating that Turkiye is ready to do what is necessary in this regard.
On bilateral issues, he mentioned that trade between the two countries has reached USD 20 billion and that larger figures could be achieved by overcoming some artificial obstacles.
He highlighted that Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan's visit to Iraq last April resulted in the signing of 27 agreements and memorandums of understanding, reflecting the importance of bilateral relations.
Fidan noted that security and stability in Iraq positively impact Turkiye's security and stability, ultimately leading to prosperity for both nations.
The Turkish minister arrived in Iraq today for an official visit, starting with discussions with his Iraqi counterpart Fuad Hussein, and is expected to meet with senior Iraqi officials afterward. (end) ahh.onm