Turkish deputies arrive in Iraq

IRAQ (AA) – Turkish deputies and an accompanying delegation entered Iraq from the Habur Border Gate on Friday to sign a protocol for hospitals to be constructed in Iraq by Turkey.

Addressing journalists at the border gate, Turhan Comez, a deputy of the Justice and Development Party (AK Party), said, "following the visit, we will convey our impressions about Iraq to Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan, Foreign Minister and Deputy Prime Minister Abdullah Gul and the other relevant authorities. After their assessments, the necessary ground will have been formed for Turkey’s future policies about Iraq."

When asked whether or not they would hold talks with civilian people in Iraq, Comez said, "of course. We are politicians. We will try to learn their views and expectations."

"After completing protocol procedures and legal proceedings, construction of hospitals will start as soon as possible," he added.

Meanwhile, Cevdet Erdol, a deputy of the AK Party, said in his part that the hospitals would serve all sections of Iraqi people.

Noting that Turkey would run these hospitals for a certain period of time, Erdol added that they planned to complete the hospitals within three-four months.

The delegation formed by two deputies, Red Crescent personnel, engineers, businessmen and technical staff is expected to arrive in Baghdad later in the day.

Members of the delegation will start holding meetings tomorrow.