Yildiz told a news conference in Baghdad that there had been progress in bilateral ties between Iraq and Turkey following President Barham Salih's visit to Ankara last week, saying that Turkey would respect Iraq's territorial integrity and would contribute to the reconstruction of areas damaged in the fight against Islamic State.

He highlighted an agreement on developing a strategic cooperation council between the two countries and said that Turkey wanted to open further consulates in the country, including Mosul, Najaf, Kirkuk, and Basra.

Reporter’s code: 50101