Erdogan and Barzani Discuss Strategic Importance of Development Road Project for Kurdistan

Peregraf

Kurdistan Region President Nechirvan Barzani met with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan in Ankara today to discuss several key issues, including the Development Road Project, a major initiative Turkey has prioritized.

In a statement issued by the Turkish presidency, Erdogan highlighted the significance of the project, saying, "This will aid the economic development of the entire region and play an important role in promoting stability and fostering brotherhood. It will also be highly beneficial for the Kurdistan Region in every aspect."

Erdogan expressed hope that the upcoming Kurdistan parliamentary elections, scheduled for October 20, would proceed smoothly. He stated his belief that the elections, in which the Iraqi Turkmen Front is also participating, will be conducted peacefully and with a comprehensive approach.

Addressing regional concerns, Erdogan warned of the risk of Israel’s conflict expanding across the Middle East. "Regional stability and peace are critical for Turkey," he emphasized, while commending Iraqi officials for their efforts to keep the conflict from spreading to their country.

Nechirvan Barzani's visit to Ankara occurs amid rising tensions linked to the Gaza war, the conflict between Israel and Hezbollah in Lebanon, and concerns about Israel's potential response to Iran's missile strikes.

Although the resumption of peace talks with the Kurds remains a key topic within Turkey, the Turkish presidency's statement did not mention this issue during Erdogan's meeting with Nechirvan Barzani.

Peregraf’s earlier investigation: What is the Development Road Project and Why is it Important?