Iraq awards 6 irrigation projects to Turkish companies

Iraq awarded six projects to Turkish companies to enhance irrigation infrastructure, Iraq’s Minister of Water Resources Avn Diyab announced Friday. He also stated that a technical delegation from the country would visit Türkiye to discuss water issues and implement the irrigation projects.

In an interview with the Iraqi News Agency (INA), Diyab highlighted Türkiye’s importance, stating, “Türkiye is a key partner for us. After President (Recep Tayyip) Erdogan’s visit to Iraq and his discussions with Prime Minister (Shia al) Sudani, we reached a framework agreement that includes practical benefits for both sides and seeks Türkiye’s support in developing Iraq’s irrigation projects.”

Diyab mentioned that Iraq is reevaluating its water usage and confirmed that an agreement has been reached with the Turkish side regarding the construction of irrigation project infrastructure. “Six projects have been awarded to Turkish companies to enhance the infrastructure for irrigation projects,” he added.

‘Technical delegation will meet in Ankara soon’

The Iraqi water resources minister continued his statement, saying, “We have identified some of the projects to be undertaken by Turkish companies, with irrigation projects being the most significant. The Turkish side has expressed its readiness to implement these irrigation projects.

These projects are under close supervision by the Cabinet’s Advisory Board, with initial designs already submitted. Türkiye has been asked to update these designs to meet modern standards. Successful implementation of projects like the Amara irrigation initiative could address water needs in Iraq’s southern regions, a crucial area, potentially resolving ongoing concerns about water waste. An Iraqi technical delegation is set to meet with Turkish counterparts in Ankara soon.”