Iraqi president condemns destruction of forests in Kurdistan Region

ERBIL, Kurdistan Region — Iraqi President Barham Salih condemned on Thursday the destruction of the natural environment and disruption to residents’ lives in Duhok province.

"The encroachment on Iraqi sovereignty, violence and the displacement of civilians from their homes, and cutting down forests in Hirore, Batifa and other border areas in the Kurdistan region, are inhumane practices and an environmental crime that should not be ignored," Salih tweeted.

A company under contract to the Turkish military has built more than 70 kilometers of road in the Kurdistan Region, felling trees to make way for the route, according to a contractor for the company.

News that Turkey has been deforesting areas near the border where it is conducting a military operation against the Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK) has sparked outrage in the Kurdistan Region.

"Our duty is to coordinate practically between the authorities of the federal government and the region to stop abuses and hold the culprits accountable," Salih stated.

The Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) has warned Turkey to stop “unacceptable” deforestation in the Kurdistan Region, a government spokesperson said on Monday.

The statement follows reports of large-scale deforestation by Turkey in Duhok province to build roads in places where they hold operations, villagers have told Rudaw on the condition of anonymity. Some say trees are being taken across the border to be sold.

The Iraqi and Kurdish agriculture ministries have also condemned Turkey, calling for international intervention.

Iraqi president condemns destruction of forests in Kurdistan Region

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