Turkish trade minister sets $30B bilateral trade goal with Iraq

Türkiye fosters efforts to grow bilateral trade volume with Iraq to $30 billion from $20 billion, praising Iraq’s sustainability in development, Trade Minister Omer Bolat stated on Wednesday.

As part of the “Türkiye-Iraq General Trade and Contracting Delegation Program and B2B Meetings,” Bolat traveled to Basra, where he met with Turkish and Iraqi business representatives.

Bolat emphasized the strengthening ties between Türkiye and Iraq, highlighting the steady progress of their relations across various sectors.

Bolat expressed optimism about closer collaborations between Turkish businesses and Basra, stating Türkiye’s willingness to contribute to Basra’s reconstruction and economic revitalization.

“We are proud to support Iraq’s development, especially in investment and trade initiatives,” he remarked.

Referring to President Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s recent visit to Iraq, Bolat underscored the continuation of fruitful discussions and emphasized the importance of fostering bilateral economic ties.

“Our relationship with Iraq extends beyond a single sector or product group. It is a comprehensive alliance rooted in political, historical, and economic stability,” he said.

Bolat also highlighted the significant role Turkish contractors and consultants have played in Iraq’s development.

“We take pride in seeing their impact across Iraq. Moving forward, Turkish firms are ready to compete and provide high-quality services at competitive prices, particularly in projects like the Development Road initiative, which is vital for Iraq and Basra,” he added.

Following Bolat’s address, Turkish and Iraqi companies engaged in B2B meetings in the event’s foyer, further strengthening economic cooperation between the two nations.