Turkey and Northern Iraq

I condemn the continued attacks on Turkish civilian and military forces in the border region in northern Iraq by the Kurdistan Workers Party (PKK) terrorist group.

I offer my deep sympathy to the families of those who have been killed, wounded or kidnapped in the senseless violence perpetrated by the PKK.

The Australian Government re-listed the PKK as a terrorist organisation under its Criminal Code on 27 September this year.

I welcome talks between the Turkish and Iraqi Governments aimed at finding a diplomatic solution to the situation on the Turkish-Iraq border, and I encourage all parties concerned to exercise restraint.

Australia is committed to working with Iraq and its neighbours to restore peace and security in Iraq. We encourage the governments of Turkey and Iraq to work together to address the threat posed by the PKK.

Media Inquiries: Mr Downer's office 02 6277 7500 - Departmental Media Liaison 02 6261 1555