An announcement released on Iraqi Prime Minister Nouri al -Maliki 's official website states, "We are pleased to welcome every step that will bring us closer to Turkey within the framework of mutual interests and respect."

During a trip to Iraq last week, U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry had suggested to Prime Minister al-Maliki that he work on improving relations with Turkey.

The announcement comes after months of hostile rhetoric directed at Turkey by the Iraqi Prime Minister.