Iraqi, Turkish defense ministers discuss bilateral issues
The Iraqi Minister of Defense, Thabet Al-Abbasi, and the Turkish Minister of Defense, Hulusi Akar. Photo: Iraqi News Agency
Baghdad (IraqiNews.com) – The Iraqi Minister of Defense, Thabet Al-Abbasi, discussed on Tuesday bilateral issues with the Turkish Minister of Defense, Hulusi Akar, during their meeting in the Turkish capital, Ankara, according to a statement issued by the Iraqi Defense Ministry.
Akar described the Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK) as a common threat to his country and Iraq, according to the Anadolu Agency.
The Turkish minister said that his country respects the territorial integrity of neighboring countries, especially Iraq.
The Turkish Defense Minister stressed that the Turkish army is determined to eliminate terrorism and protect Turkey’s borders.
Akar called for cooperation and coordination in combating terrorist groups, indicating the importance of strengthening cooperation between the Turkish and Iraqi armed forces.
The two ministers discussed regional and international issues and ways to strengthen cooperation between the two sides in defense industries.
Akar thanked Al-Abbasi for the assistance Iraq provided to those affected by the devastating earthquake that struck Turkey on February 6.