A Sunni-Shiite rift is a worrying trend in the Middle East but recent developments in Turkey’s ties with Iraq and Iran could prevent the threat of a sectarian war, Foreign Minister Ahmet Davuto?lu was quoted by Hurriyet Daily News as saying following a visit to Iraq. The two-day visit included talks with Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki and several officials and political leaders in Baghdad and the Shiite holy cities of Najaf and Karbala. Praising the latest rapprochement with the neighboring country, Davuto?lu emphasized the importance of the mutual visits. "The ties have gained new rhythm with these visits," he said.