Turkey Calls for Iraq to Recognize PKK as a Terrorist Organization

Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan urged Iraq to officially designate the PKK as a terrorist organization during a joint press conference with his Iraqi counterpart Fuad Hussein in Baghdad. Fidan emphasized that the PKK poses a significant threat to Iraq’s sovereignty and regional stability, highlighting recent PKK attacks, including one that claimed the lives of two Iraqi soldiers, CE Report quotes Anadolu Agency

"PKK targets Türkiye, Iraq, and Syria. For the future of our region, we must combine all our means to eliminate both DAESH and the PKK," Fidan stated.

Fidan praised the growing security cooperation between Turkey and Iraq, calling it vital for combating terrorism and ensuring mutual prosperity. He underscored the importance of Iraq’s stability, noting that it directly influences regional peace and Turkey’s prosperity.

The Turkish minister also highlighted the Development Road Project as a key initiative for regional cooperation, recalling agreements signed by President Recep Tayyip Erdogan. "We aim to see concrete results from this project as soon as possible," Fidan added.

The PKK, recognized as a terrorist organization by Turkey, the US, and the EU, has waged a decades-long insurgency against Turkey, leading to the deaths of over 40,000 people.