President Erdogan: Iraq should declare PKK as a terrorist organization
President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and his delegation visited Iraq. During the visit, which took place yesterday, many agreements were signed, focusing on counterterrorism and economic cooperation.
President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, during a press conference with Iraqi Prime Minister Muhammed Shia al-Sudani, emphasized cooperation in counterterrorism by stating ‘We will act jointly against the PKK’ and expressed his belief that the signed agreements will mark a new turning point in Turkey-Iraq relations.
Upon his return to the country, Erdogan, speaking to journalists on the plane, evaluated the critical visit in the following words:
Dear journalists, esteemed colleagues, I greet you with the most heartfelt feelings. First of all, I express my deep condolences to the passing of spiritual leader Hasan Kılıc Hocaefendi, a respected figure of our time. We met with Mr. Hasan recently and received his blessings. May Allah rest his soul in peace. I express my condolences to Hocaefendi’s family, relatives, students, and the entire Ismailaga community.
Dear journalists, dear friends, we visited Iraq upon the invitation of Iraqi Prime Minister Muhammad Shia al-Sudani. In the meetings we held with Iraqi President Abdul Latif Rashid and Prime Minister Sudani, we discussed the accelerating relations between our countries. We confirmed our joint determination to further enhance our relations. We reiterated our support for the steps taken by the government led by Prime Minister Sudani to maintain stability and prosperity in Iraq. We evaluated the steps we could take especially in fighting terrorism, trade, transportation, energy, and the effects of climate change. As you know, Iraq recently declared the terrorist organization PKK, a banned organization. We expressed our satisfaction with this decision. We emphasized our expectation for the PKK to be declared officially as a terrorist organization in Iraq and for its presence in Iraq to be ended. Hopefully, we will see more concrete results in the coming period.
The Development Way Project was also at the top of our agenda. With the signed quadruple memorandum of understanding, we have passed a critical threshold in this regard. Hopefully, we will make further progress from now on. In addition, with the signed 27 agreements and memoranda of understanding, we have strengthened the contractual basis of our relationship. The memorandum of understanding on the strategic framework will especially guide the course of our relations. Thus, we have taken a historic step towards giving our relationship an institutional, constructive, and result-oriented character. We are in agreement on the effective implementation of these agreements. The Iraqi brothers also have the necessary will. I also met with Turkmen leaders in Baghdad. We expressed to our Turkmen brothers that we are always by their side as a country and nation.
Dear friends, after Baghdad, we went to Erbil. During our visit to Erbil, we had productive meetings with the leaders of the Iraqi Kurdistan Regional Government. The sight of the crescent-starred flags of our country hanging all over Erbil truly touched us. We had the opportunity to once again see the close friendship between Turkey and the Iraqi Kurdistan Region. Our determination to further advance our cooperation with the Iraqi Kurdish Regional Government is permanent. We discussed the steps we can take against the PKK threat. We confirmed that the lasting success in the fight against terrorism is critical for the security of our region. We extensively evaluated our economic relations, including energy, transportation, trade, and investments. We also discussed the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, especially in Palestine. We expressed our concern over the negative implications of Israeli atrocities on our region and Iraq’s security and stability. I believe that our increased cooperation with Iraq, both bilaterally and regionally, will contribute to the peace and stability of the entire region. I hope that the outcomes of our discussions and decisions will be beneficial for our countries. I thank all the Iraqi brothers for their sincere hospitality. Now I give the floor to you.
Answering questions from accompanying journalists, Erdogan used the following statements:
Regarding the fight against terrorism with Iraq ‘You said that ‘as of this summer, terrorism will be eliminated at the border with Iraq.’ Is a joint operation with Iraq in question, or will Turkey carry out this operation on its own? Did this issue come up in your contacts in Iraq? How will the process proceed?
“In Iraq as well as in Syria, especially the quagmire of terrorism will be dried up not only by our efforts but also by the combined efforts of the governments of both countries. In addition to that, we are continuing our comprehensive fight against all terrorist organizations without discrimination. Especially our fight against the PKK/PYD/YPG nestling in Iraq and Syria has been ongoing comprehensively for many years as you may know. In the future, we will continue with the same determination. We will continue this fight with the same determination. Particularly in Iraq and Syria the PKK/PYD/YPG terrorist organization is a threat to the stability, development, and peace in Iraq. The elimination of this threat is in the interest of Iraq. I believe that they see this reality and will now show the will to eliminate this obstacle. It is essential for Iraq’s development vision, the security of international investments, and the prospects for a predictable future that these terrorist pits are levelled off and predictable tomorrows are built for Iraq. We will eliminate terrorism one way or another. We are determined in this regard. We will not leave the field to those who walk with terrorism and those who use terrorist organizations as a pawn.”
Regarding the water issue between the two countries “There are significant issues between Turkey and Iraq regarding the amount of water flowing from the Tigris and Euphrates rivers. Is there a possibility of cooperation or an agreement between the two sides regarding the amount of water flowing from these rivers?”
“These resources need to be used rationally when it comes to the water issue. Iraq has demands on the water issue from us. At this point, the necessary measures should be taken to develop new plans and programs in line with the changing climate conditions in the world and to ensure the sustainable use of water. It should not be forgotten that we also have water problems similar to theirs. Turkey is not rich in water, and it is listed among the countries experiencing water stress. So, we need to take cautious steps. Evaluations to be made in this direction can lead us to a common ground. Without detailed examination of technical issues and scenarios for the future, these issues cannot be solved with the logic of ‘we did it.’ Turkey adopts a rational, conciliatory, and solution-oriented approach in these matters, and we will continue on this path. Our goal is to continue dialogue with goodwill, implement joint projects, and find common solutions to our common problems. Because water is not a conflict tool but an area of cooperation that serves our common interests.”
About the situation in Gaza “There is a genocide taking place in Gaza by Israel. Efforts are also being made to achieve a permanent ceasefire in Gaza. Turkey is engaged in intense diplomatic traffic. Most recently, you met with Hamas leader. You also had talks with many other leaders. Do you have hope for achieving a permanent ceasefire? How do you evaluate the meetings with Iraq?”
“Gaza issue must be approached from the perspective of 7th October onwards. Islreal pursuing unprecedented atrocities and trying to destroy Gaza, changes the approach to this situation. The occupation of Gaza by Israel opens the door to other invasions. Opening Gaza to Israeli thieving terrorists makes Israel more aggressive and reckless. This is something we cannot allow. Therefore, there are steps we need to take. In the face of these cruel, barbaric Israel’s actions, we will take initiatives to engage the United Nations Secretary-General and take joint steps with them. The Islamic world needs to wake up and see the tremors caused by these massacres that lead to genocide. If the Islamic world does not see this and does not think of policies for resolving this, it risks losing its reflexes completely. That is why we cannot remain silent on this issue. All nerve endings must be activated. The Gaza issue is currently the most important issue in the Islamic world. The focus of the Islamic world, thinking for a solution, making realistic and effective policies should be Gaza. The region should focus on this issue for its peace and stability. We discussed the humanitarian crisis taking place in Gaza.
Concerning Hamas Political Bureau Leader Ismail Haniyeh’s feelings towards you ”, Ismail Haniyeh said the Palestinians love your “one minute” and “occupying Israel statements,’ can we hear your emotional thoughts on this?
“I had a very sincere meeting with Mr. Haniyeh. I saw Mr. Haniyeh determined in the fight against Israel. In this heartfelt meeting, I felt the response of the brotherliness extended from heart to heart, which was felt by me in Palestine. We are like the et-tirnak of them. Their hearts are sad, and no one should think that we sleep comfortably. They know us, and we know them. What we have said till now clearly shows this. We will continue with the same understanding. We will never leave Hamas, including the Palestinians alone. That is why we continued to send about 45,000 tons of aid to Gaza. These contributions still continue and will continue. In addition, we are currently treating the injured in our hospitals in Ankara and Istanbul. With the steps we took at the Sahra Hospital, we will continue to be by these brothers. Our saga cannot be written separately from the Palestinian issue. We have a place in the big story of the Palestinian cause. When we see the sincere words spoken to us by Hamas and the prayers of mothers and children in pain, we understand. I hope we can live up to their love, their high spirits.
It has been stated that there is serious pressure on Hamas members in Qatar, and there are claims regarding the departure of the Hamas leadership from there. Is it possible for them to come to Turkey? Have you received a request from you for this?
“As of now, hankering after where the Hamas leaders are or where the future will be, it is about understanding the condition in Gaza. If the situation is about their positions in Qatar regarding these brothers, it’s not known for me what their positions will be about them. However, I have not heard about an initiative to deny the status of these brothers with Qatar so far. But I also don’t think that the Emir of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim, will take an initiative to remove the position of these brothers in Qatar, and I don’t even think that he will. Their sincerity towards them, their attitude towards them is dear to us as if they were members of our family. I don’t think they will take such an action about the position of these brothers in Qatar. I am sure that they will make decisions in a compassionate and positive manner towards the organization. It is crucial; it is our brothers’ feeling attached to their position in Qatar. Given the situation, they surely want to improve their position. I hope that Armenia gets rid of the darkness that their diaspora made them captives and chooses a new beginning for a light-filled tomorrow. The time has come to create new roadmaps and new paths on a realistic ground. Hopefully, Armenia will choose the right path and a new era will begin.”
Regarding Armenia’s Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan “Last days, there was a discussion concerning the PM’s avoidance of using the term ‘genocide’ when talking about the events of 1915. He preferred to say ‘great disaster’ instead. The same Pashinyan criticized the presence of Mount Ararat within the borders of Turkey, questioning its inclusion in the state emblem. What are your thoughts on this seemingly peace-friendly attitude? Will Turkey’s approach of peace with Azerbaijan, Turkestan, and the great development projects in the Caucasus allow Armenia to be included in these projects?
“A new order is being established in the region now. The moment for baseless dogmas to be set aside has come and gone. It is better to move in line with the realities of the time rather than operate with fictional historical stories without a connection to reality. Pashinyan already seems to have understood this. In history, what happened in the past is initially covered by historians. From the beginning, we made it clear that we could open and provide our archives. Now, it is time to chart new paths on a realistic ground. I hope Armenia will opt for the path to break free from the darkness that the diaspora has captivated them in and make a new beginning for a bright tomorrow. Hopeful Armenia will choose the right path and start a new era.”
About the situation in Gaza “There is a genocide taking place in Gaza by Israel. Efforts are also being made to achieve a permanent ceasefire in Gaza. Turkey is engaged in intense diplomatic traffic. Most recently, you met with Hamas leader. You also had talks with many other leaders. Do you have hope for achieving a permanent ceasefire? How do you evaluate the meetings with Iraq?”
“In the face of Israel’s unprecedented atrocities and its moves to obliterate Gaza, changing the approach to this situation requires an understanding of this. Israel’s conquest of Gaza opens the door to other invasions. Allowing the Israeli terrorists to settle in Gaza makes Israel more aggressive and cruel. This is not something we can allow. There are steps we need to take. We will refer the United Nations Secretary-General to this issue, take joint steps with them, and we will pursue efforts with the UN and Israel in order to address these issues. The Islamic world will not come to its senses from these genocidal massacres unless it wakes up. We must activate all nerve endings. The Gaza issue is currently the most important issue in the Islamic world. The focus of the Islamic world must be on Gaza to come up with solutions, make realistic and effective policies. We spoke about the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
Regarding Hamas Political Bureau Leader Ismail Haniyeh’s feelings towards you “, Ismail Haniyeh said that Palestinians love your words of ‘one minute” and “occupying Israel.’ What are your thoughts on this?
“I had a very sincere meeting with Mr. Haniyeh. I found Mr. Haniyeh to be very determined in the fight against Israel. I felt the brotherhood extended from heart to heart with Mr. Haniyeh in this heartfelt meeting. We have become one with our Palestinian brothers. They know us, and we know them. We have made it clear that we will not leave the Hamas, as well as the Palestinians, on their own. For this reason, we have sent about 45,000 tons of aid to Gaza. These aids continue and will continue. In addition, we are currently treating the injured in our hospitals in Ankara and Istanbul. We will continue to be there for our brothers with the steps we have taken in the Sahra Hospital. We will continue taking steps to be with these brothers. It is essential that the Islamic world secures and makes an effort for those who have been subjected to genocide. We will do everything we can for them.
It has been stated that Hamas members in Qatar are under serious pressure, and there are allegations that the Hamas leadership will leave Qatar. Is it possible for them to come to Turkey? Have you received a request from them about this?
“I currently do not have information on this issue related to the position of the Hamas leaders in Qatar or the potential action regarding them. Until now, I have not been informed about the possibility of the Emir of Qatar removing the position of these brothers with Qatar, and I do not consider it likely. I do not believe that such action will be taken by him. They are dear to us as members of the family, and I do not believe the positive and sincere approach towards them will change. In the future, I don’t know about the position of these brothers regarding Qatar, not to mention the possibility of removing them. I don’t think that such an action will be taken by the Emir. They are dear to us, and life will give them the strength to change their position. I hope that Armenia will break free from the darkness imposed by the diaspora and move towards a brighter future. I am of the thought that Armenia should choose the correct road and start a new era.
Criticism of Turkey’s ruling AK Party “His party was founded in 2001, but its main name Demokratik Eşitlik Partisi was later known as DEM Party in nearly 20 years since its foundation. President Erdogan said, ‘This work should be performed in a very comprehensive way. This should be a government along with all its organs and mechanisms. We will reply to those within the scope of the constitution. Mr Bahceli’s statements are nothing but the implementation of the principle of the Constitution. The same situation applies to me. Whenever anyone violates this hukuk, they are required to pay the price.”
Regarding cost-cutting measures “It is known that you have embarked on efforts for cost-cutting in the public sector. Can you provide information on what this includes, its content, and when it will take effect?”
“In cost-cutting, considering unnecessary expenditures is critical. The effective and efficient use of public funds, which will also lead to budget revisions. The Ministry of Treasury and Finance will follow cost-cutting steps and review all expenses, from official vehicle usages to communication expenses, representation, ceremony, hospitality services, demountable purchases, etc. The necessary measures to be taken in cost-cutting will be identified, and unnecessary costs will be prevented. We are determined to take on the challenge of enhancing our citizens’ welfare. We have to take the necessary steps. Budgets should be rearranged in a way that includes cost-cutting into our country’s economy. I and my generation have witnessed this previously. We will achieve it again.
Regarding the fight against terrorism “It has recently been noted that there have been exorbitant pricing practices without any economic justification in food, especially in the past year. Along with that, a boycott has been imposed on cafes and restaurants. It is suggested that labels indicating the product’s actual price be put on packaging as a remedy for increased prices. Will new roadmaps or new steps be taken against exorbitant prices? For example, could imprisonment be considered?”
“In fighting excessive pricing, more deterrent measures can be taken. No matter how much the salaries increase, the problem will be ongoing unless we curb the excessive greed. Especially in necessary items like food, we cannot allow this to happen. If there are suggestions for putting the prices on the labels, this issue should be considered. We are determined to find an effective solution to tackle this issue. We are exploring solutions to combat these high prices in all areas to support our citizen’s livelihoods. We will not allow our people to be crushed under the burden of exorbitant prices. Whoever engages in such practices will pay the price.”
In conclusion, President Erdogan’s recent visit to Iraq led to the signing of various agreements aimed at enhancing cooperation between the two countries. The President’s remarks on various important issues ranging from counterterrorism to economic cooperation shed light on the direction of future relations between Turkey and Iraq. The President’s commitment to taking concrete steps to address issues such as cost-cutting, excess pricing, and terrorism further demonstrates his dedication to improving the welfare of the Turkish people and fostering positive relationships with neighboring countries.
