Turkey's President in Iraq after 33 years

BAGHDAD - Turkey's President Abdullah Gul started Monday his two-day formal visit to Iraqi capital Baghdad, making him the first Turkish president visiting neighboring Iraq after 33 years.
Fahri Koruturk was the only Turkish President to pay a visit to Iraq in 1976.

President Gul was welcomed by Iraq's Deputy Prime Minister Sabir al-Issawi, Foreign Minister Hoshyar Zebari and Human Rights Minister Wijdan Mikhail at the Baghdad International Airport.

Gul will receive a ceremonial welcome from Iraq's President Jalal Talabani at the Al Salam Palace.

Gul and Talabani will have a meeting at the palace.

Gul is also expected to receive Iraqi Prime Minister Nuri al-Maliki and Foreign Minister Zebari.

(TÇ-MS)