Details of the security memorandum signed between Türkiye and Iraq have emerged

Details have emerged regarding the memorandum of understanding signed between Türkiye and Iraq. The “Memorandum of Understanding on Military, Security Cooperation, and Counterterrorism” was signed by Turkish Defense Minister Yaşar Güler and Iraqi Defense Minister Thabit Muhammad Riza Al-Abbasi.

Establishment of joint centers for counterterrorism training and cooperation

Diplomatic sources have confirmed that Türkiye and Iraq will establish a Joint Security Coordination Center in Baghdad and a Joint Training and Cooperation Center in Bashiqa. These centers are designed to enhance the cooperation between the two countries in their fight against terrorism, particularly against the PKK.

During the signing, Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan highlighted that the signing of 27 agreements and memoranda of understanding during President Erdoğan’s visit was a significant demonstration of the shared will between the two nations.

He recalled that the Strategic Framework Agreement between Türkiye and Iraq provides for the establishment of Joint Permanent Committees in areas deemed necessary for cooperation.

These committees are intended to strengthen bilateral relations across various sectors, including trade, energy, water resources, transportation, health, and education.

Visa exemption for specific age groups

Diplomatic sources also noted that the decision to exempt visa requirements for individuals under 15 and over 50 years of age was made to focus on “higher-risk groups,” with the primary aim being to prevent migration. Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan had announced this decision during a joint press conference with Iraqi Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein, following the 4th meeting of the Türkiye-Iraq High-Level Security Mechanism.

The new visa exemption policy will take effect on September 1. Addressing concerns that this decision could lead to a new wave of migration, given Türkiye’s efforts to voluntarily repatriate over 3 million Syrian refugees, diplomatic sources pointed out that the age groups granted visa exemptions typically travel with those who are still subject to visa requirements.