Turkish, Iraqi defense chiefs meet in Ankara to discuss counterterrorism, border security

By Muhammed Enes Calli

ISTANBUL (AA) - Türkiye's national defense minister met with his visiting Iraqi counterpart on Thursday to discuss the joint counterterrorism efforts and border security.

"The importance of advancing cooperation through common steps, primarily in the fight against terrorism and border security, was emphasized" during the meeting between Yasar Guler and Thabet al-Abbasi, who was on an official visit to the Turkish capital Ankara, the Turkish Defense Ministry said on X.

After a military ceremony at the ministry to welcome Al-Abbasi, the two official ministers held one-on-one and delegation-level talks, it added.

During the talks, Guler and al-Abbasi discussed matters related to regional military and defense industry cooperation.

Guler, who emphasized the "strong historical and social ties" between the two neighboring countries, also highlighted the importance of enhancing cooperation through joint actions, particularly in areas like counterterrorism and border security, said the statement.

He also expressed his pleasure at hosting Al-Abbasi and conveyed his condolences for the loss of life caused by a fire at a wedding in the northern Iraqi city of Mosul, it added.