Iraqi VP due in Ankara today

Iraqi Vice President Tariq al-Hashemi will arrive today in Ankara to hold talks on issues such as local elections in his country set for this fall, the Kirkuk issue, economic ties, and cooperation in the fight against terrorism. The details of a Strategic Cooperation Agreement recently signed during Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan's visit to Iraq will also be discussed. Al- Hashemi will be received by President Abdullah Gul and will also meet with Erdogan. DATE.23-07-08