Ankara: Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has announced that Turkish Petroleum has entered into a partnership in Iraq's Kirkuk production field, marking a significant advancement in energy collaboration between the two nations. This development was confirmed during a joint news conference with Iraqi Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi in Ankara.

According to TRTworld.com, President Erdogan described the newly signed agreement as "a historic step" in bilateral energy cooperation. He emphasized the importance of this partnership in the energy sector, highlighting the strategic significance of the Kirkuk production field for Turkish Petroleum.

During the conference, Erdogan and al-Zaidi also discussed regional issues, particularly focusing on Iran, Syria, and Palestine. Erdogan expressed Trkiye's readiness to supply Iraq with the necessary defense industry products to bolster its security.

Erdogan underscored the broader regional vision of transforming the Middle East into an area known for development and stability rather than conflict. He emphasized that Trkiye considers Iraq's peace and stability as integral to its own, given the history of war and instability in the region.

The Turkish president also mentioned the Development Road Project, which aims to connect the Gulf to global markets through Iraq. This initiative has gained increased relevance amid current regional dynamics.

On the security front, Erdogan assured that Ankara will continue its dialogue with Iraq to support the "terror-free Trkiye" process and to foster a peaceful region.