Iraq and Turkey sign framework agreement on water resources cooperation

Iraqi Foreign Minister Hossein and Turkish Foreign Minister Fidan signed a document on the implementation mechanism of the water resources cooperation framework agreement, aimed at alleviating Iraq's water resources crisis. The agreement is considered historic and paves the way for further cooperation between the two parties. Iraqi Prime Minister Soudani presided over the signing ceremony. Fidan stated that this agreement is the first of its kind among similar agreements, and Turkish officials mentioned that Iraq will establish a Water Infrastructure Project Committee, inviting Turkish companies to participate in the bidding, with funding coming from Iraq's oil sales to Turkey. Around 70% of Iraq's water resources come from neighboring countries, with the Tigris and Euphrates rivers originating in Turkey. The United Nations has classified Iraq as the fifth most vulnerable country to the impacts of climate change globally. This summer, high temperatures have highlighted Iraq's vulnerability to climate change, with water reserves falling to their lowest level in 80 years. Iraq has long accused upstream neighbors Iran and Turkey of reducing river flow, but has not been able to reach a fair agreement on the distribution of water resources. Iran and Turkey both face water shortages and have accused Iraq of using outdated irrigation methods. In April 2024, Turkish President Erdogan agreed to strengthen cooperation in the field of water resources between Turkey and Iraq.