We strongly condemn the bomb and armed attacks perpetrated on 16 and 17 December throughout Iraq, including Baghdad and Kirkuk, which left dozens of people killed and many injured. We wish God's mercy on our Iraqi brothers who lost their lives in the attacks, convey our condolences to their bereaved families and wish a speedy recovery to those injured.

It is clear that these terrorist attacks, which have intensified just before the first anniversary of the withdrawal of U.S troops in Iraq and at a time when the tensions have already escalated in the country, target the unity of the brotherly people of Iraq. We believe that the people and leaders of Iraq will not allow the dark forces that breed on this tense atmosphere in the country to reach their goal.

Turkey, which sincerely wishes our neighbour Iraq to achieve peace and stability, will continue to be in solidarity with the brotherly people of Iraq in their fight against the scourge of terrorism.