In his speech at the conference, Erdogan emphasized that the "Development Road" project, which extends from Basra to Turkish ports, passing through a 1,200-kilometer road and railway network within Iraq, is a "strategic project" that will contribute to achieving stability and prosperity in Iraq and the entire region.
Erdogan called on the concerned countries to engage in the project, adding, "Iraq's stability is Türkiye's stability, and we will never consider it separate from our national security."
For his part, the Iraqi Prime Minister said that the "Development Road" is not just a transportation project, but rather a platform for regional economic integration.
He added, "We consider it one of the most important projects in the Middle East, and we seek to complete it as soon as possible."
Al-Sudani emphasized that Iraq seeks to build a comprehensive development relationship with Türkiye based on "mutual respect and non-interference," noting that the two countries face common security challenges, particularly in the fight against terrorism.
He stressed the need for cooperation in this context to combat terrorist organizations such as the PKK, ISIS, and the Gulen movement.
The two sides also discussed the water issue, with Al-Sudani considering it a sensitive issue related to food and environmental security, emphasizing that his administration seeks to resolve it through a spirit of mutual understanding and coordination, taking into account climate conditions and good neighborly relations.
On the economic level, Al-Sudani noted that Türkiye is a major trading partner for Iraq and plays a significant role in investment and reconstruction.
Al-Sudani praised the development of trade, educational, and cultural relations, stressing that relations between the two countries are "friendly, balanced, and based on common interests."
For his part, Erdogan called for accelerating the resumption of oil pumping through the Kirkuk-Ceyhan pipeline, expressing his country's desire to expand its economic partnership with Iraq.
He also expressed Türkiye's concern over the recent escalation between India and Pakistan, warning of the situation sliding into a military confrontation, and affirming that Ankara is making diplomatic efforts to prevent the conflict from escalating.
In a related context, Al-Sudani emphasized that Iraq seeks to be an active player in the regional stability equation, while simultaneously affirming his country's categorical rejection of current Israeli policies.
"The Netanyahu government is trying to drag the region toward more war and destruction," he said, referring to the ongoing escalation in Gaza.
He added, "We are witnessing a horrific massacre being committed daily against Palestinian women and children. Iraq will not be an arena for settling scores, but rather seeks regional dialogue that serves common interests."
Al-Sudani concluded by affirming Iraq's commitment to a balanced foreign policy that prioritizes dialogue and regional cooperation, ensuring the country's sovereignty and preventing it from being drawn into new conflicts.
