Türkiye, Iraq officials meet to address border security amid PKK threats

Turkish Defense Minister Yasar Guler and Iraq’s National Security Adviser Qasim al-Araji strategize on PKK threats along shared border, aiming for lasting security solutions

Defense Minister Yasar Guler held a meeting on Tuesday with Iraq’s National Security Adviser Qasim al-Araji aimed at addressing crucial security matters.

Türkiye’s National Security Council Secretary-General Seyfullah Hacimuftuoglu also participated in the meeting, which was held at an unspecified location. 

This gathering comes in the wake of heightened tensions and security challenges along the Türkiye-Iraq border. President Recep Tayyip Erdogan recently emphasized the urgency of resolving issues related to the border, stating that concrete steps will be taken to achieve this goal by the upcoming summer.

The region bordering Iraq has long been a concern for Türkiye due to the presence of PKK militants. In its more than 40-year terror campaign against Türkiye, the PKK – listed as a terrorist organization by Türkiye, the United States and the European Union – has been responsible for the death of some 40,000 people, including women and children.

Northern Iraq, particularly the mountainous terrain, has served as a refuge and operational base for PKK terrorists, enabling them to launch attacks into Turkish territory. Türkiye has consistently urged Iraq to take decisive action against PKK presence within its borders, emphasizing the need for coordinated efforts to combat terrorism and ensure regional stability.

The meeting between Minister Guler, Iraq’s national security adviser, and Türkiye’s National Security Council secretary-general underscores the ongoing commitment to addressing these security challenges through diplomatic channels and strategic cooperation. This initiative reflects Türkiye’s firm stance on safeguarding its borders and combating terrorism to ensure the safety and well-being of its citizens.

Source: Newsroom

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