Barzani, Turkish FM Discuss Bilateral Ties, Reconstruction of Mosul

Kurdish leader Masoud Barzani received on Monday the Foreign Minister of Turkey, Mevlut Cavusoglu, in Erbil, where they discussed a range of issues pertaining to the political and security developments in the region.

Cavusoglu was in Erbil to also attend the inauguration of the new president of Kurdistan Region, Nechirvan Barzani.

In his meeting with Barzani, the Turkish top diplomat reiterated that Kurdistan Region and its stability is of significant importance for its Turkish neighbor. He said Ankara is committed to further foster ties in the areas of politics, trade and economy with Erbil. Discussing the post-Islamic State Mosul, Cavusoglu said his country is ready to contribute to the reconstruction efforts of the devastated city.

Both sides agreed to develop historical ties between the Kurdistan Region and Turkey further, a statement from the KDP leader’s office read. They also discussed “the political situation of the region and the latest developments.”

The statement added that FM Cavusoglu expressed “his country’s readiness to participate in the reconstruction of Mosul and other areas.” The Islamic State’s takeover of Nineveh province and the subsequent expulsion thereof by Iraqi forces severely dilapidated the homes and infrastructure in the area.

 

Nearly two years since the liberation of the province, the local and national government are yet to rebuild it, which, along with the lack of security, has left many people displaced and afraid to return.