Türkiye Iraq Sign Historic Water Management Accord Amid Regional Security Efforts

Türkiye and Iraq are set to sign a historic water management agreement, marking the first of its kind between the two neighbors aimed at addressing the region's worsening drought and water crisis. Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan and Iraqi Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein emphasized that the pact will improve Iraq's water infrastructure and strengthen bilateral cooperation in trade, energy, and security. Iraq, heavily reliant on the Euphrates and Tigris rivers originating in Türkiye, has suffered from reduced water flow due to Turkish dam projects and climate change, contributing to environmental degradation and severe drought. Both countries view the agreement as a significant step to manage shared water resources rationally and efficiently, with hopes to prevent future generations from facing similar challenges. Additionally, the talks included discussions on regional security and the Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK), with Ankara welcoming the PKK's decision to withdraw from Turkish soil and urging the group to end armed activity in Iraq and Syria. This cooperation reflects a new era of regional collaboration as both governments seek to address longstanding issues through dialogue and joint efforts.