پەرلەمانی کوردستان
Erbil, Kurdistan Region
February 26, 2025
President Nechirvan Barzani on Wednesday participated in Erbil Forum, a three-day conference hosted by the Rudaw Research Center in Erbil. Dr. Abdul Latif Rashid, the President of the Federal Republic of Iraq, and Dr. Mahmoud al-Mashhadani, the Speaker of the Iraqi Parliament, attended the event. Additionally, numerous senior officials from Iraq and the Kurdistan Region, as well as experts and guests from various countries, were present.
President Nechirvan Barzani took part in a panel discussion covering significant topics related to the regional situation and issues affecting Iraq and the Kurdistan Region.
When asked about the timeline for forming the new cabinet, the President replied:
“As we gather here in Erbil, the delegations from the PUK and KDP are deeply engaged in substantive discussions regarding the establishment of the Kurdistan Regional Government. Meanwhile, it is noteworthy that the Kurdistan Region held a highly successful election last year, with a remarkable voter turnout of 72% among the people. This result places significant responsibility on the PUK and KDP, as they are the leading parties, and they must strive to fulfill the citizens' expectations by sincerely trying to establish an effective government. Therefore, we believe it is necessary to allow this process the time it needs to reach a proper resolution.”
Regarding the impact of the upcoming Iraqi parliamentary elections set for October on the discussions to form a new KRG cabinet, the President stated:
"I believe it is essential to keep these matters distinct. The elections held in the Kurdistan Region were indeed successful. I wish to express my gratitude to Baghdad for its cooperation and support. It is crucial to separate these two issues, as I believe the people of Kurdistan expects the formation of this government to happen much sooner. I hope we approach this matter with the seriousness it deserves, especially given the 72% voter turnout and the trust of the people of Kurdistan have placed in these parties, which compels them to expedite the government formation process.”
In response to a follow-up question about the potential establishment of a new strategic agreement between the PUK and KDP resulting from these discussions, the President commented:
"If we examine the previous strategic agreement between the PUK and KDP, we indeed established a strategic framework which benefited Kurdistan enormously. Now, however, the current agreement, perhaps is not called strategic agreement, but serves as a solid administrative and political foundation for addressing governance issues in Kurdistan and resolving the challenges we face, whether they are administrative or political, with the aim of stabilizing them.”
In response to questions about whether the new cabinet will be formed solely by the PUK and KDP or if other parties will be involved, as well as the potential for a strong opposition, President Nechirvan Barzani stated:
“To be honest, both the PUK and KDP have made efforts to establish a government that encompasses all parties. The PUK tried to form a government independently of the KDP, and vice versa, but such efforts have proven impractical. Certainly, other groups will be included in the government, yet the key positions will be held by the PUK and KDP.”
Concerning the regional situation, recent developments, and their implications for the Kurdish context overall and the Kurdistan Region in particular, the President remarked:
“We engage in discussions with all parties. Although we may not have held a formal meeting to address these matters, we maintain ongoing communication with all stakeholders and are actively discussing these matters. All parties in Kurdistan are addressing this matter with concern, and we consistently keep one another informed.”
Regarding his visits to Baghdad and discussions with various stakeholders, particularly within the judiciary, the President highlighted the significance of these engagements as a way to address the ongoing issues between Erbil and Baghdad. He stated:
"The core issue between Erbil and Baghdad does not solely lie with the government. The most significant challenge we face is the federal system, which, in theory and practice, is not functioning as intended. Baghdad views Erbil not just as part of a federal system, but rather as if it were an independent state or a member of the United Nations. Conversely, Erbil perceives Baghdad's approach as excessively centralized.”
The President noted that during his visits to Baghdad, particularly in discussions with Iraqi partners, a recurring theme emerged around the need to clarify the federal system. "Resolving these issues would contribute positively to Iraq's political stability," he asserted. “The current tensions stem from questions of authority and jurisdiction. While some actions may extend beyond the federal framework, the agreements made with the Kurdistan Region are overly centralized. It is imperative that we engage in serious dialogue, as this is essential for achieving a political resolution in Iraq. In this context, discussions have taken place with the Iraqi judiciary. I must be candid; despite prior hesitations about engaging with them, our meetings have revealed new possibilities for collaboration. I extended an invitation to the President of the Federal Court of Iraq, inquiring why he had not convened a meeting in Erbil. Erbil is an integral part of Iraq, and we are part of Iraq. I believe that if we can address this issue, the matters of financial transfers and salary payments will no longer be a contentious topic. The fundamental problem originates from the system itself; the Iraqi framework does not operate as a true federal system.
He accepted the invitation, and we have established a robust relationship with the Iraqi judiciary within the Kurdistan Regional Government. They have agreed to visit the Kurdistan Region."
President Nechirvan Barzani announced that the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) will move forward with oil exports in partnership with Baghdad:
"Türkiye has consistently expressed its readiness to facilitate oil exports from the Kurdistan Region. I have reiterated this point on numerous occasions. Our view is that oil acts as both a commercial and political asset, and Iraq has faced losses estimated at around $19 to $20 billion due to the lack of support for this initiative from certain members of the Iraqi parliament. This constitutes a substantial financial setback for Iraq. The Iraqi authorities are ready to move forward, although there are some technical issues to resolve, such as the payment mechanisms from companies. These are logistical matters, but the essential agreement has been established, and we expect that oil exports from Kurdistan will begin shortly.”
Regarding the involvement of the United States and Russia in this matter, the President stated:
"Certainly, the United States, as a key partner, has played a crucial role in expediting the resolution of this issue, particularly since some of the involved companies are American. The United States has actively urged both Baghdad and Erbil to resolve the matter swiftly and to resume oil exports. And of course even Russia has played a role in resolving this issue, since there are some Russian companies here.”
President Nechirvan Barzani addressed the significance of oil exports for the budget and salaries in the Kurdistan Region, emphasizing Prime Minister Al-Sudani's assurances.
“Regarding salaries, the Speaker of Parliament, at a recent meeting of the state coalition, made it clear that resolving the issues faced by the Kurdistan Region requires the federal government to ensure that salaries remain separate from our disputes with Baghdad. We held a meeting that included myself, the President of the Federal Court, and the Prime Minister. During this meeting, the President of the Court emphasized that salaries must be kept independent. Indeed, Prime Minister Sudani has not neglected his duty to provide employees' salaries in the Kurdistan Region. However, the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) must also meet some of its commitments. As the president of the Kurdistan Region, I believe that the KRG has engaged with Baghdad with the utmost transparency. We hope that budgetary concerns do not overshadow our relationship with Baghdad. We are interdependent within Iraq, assisting in various areas while receiving support in others. Additionally, we face further challenges, including Article 140, the status of the Peshmerga, and various other issues. The Prime Minister, the Federal Court, and the Iraqi Parliament must recognize and uphold the rights of the Kurdistan Regional Government as anessential part of Iraq, as this is a constitutional entitlement.”
In responding to a question about the significance of the Development Road Project in Iraq for both the Kurdistan Region and the nation overall, President Nechirvan Barzani stated:
“You have heard the Prime Minister’s remarks on the Development Road Project, which will open a significant gateway for Iraq in terms of political and economic stability. However, this road must be constructed in a manner that—let me phrase it this way—functions as a strategic initiative of great importance. It should unite the country rather than create further divisions.”
“From our perspective in the Kurdistan Region, it is essential for us to understand the path this road will take. What route will it take? How will it be designed? We believe it should be implemented in a way that benefits the Kurdistan Region as well as other communities in Iraq. Such projects should be designed to encourage national unity, integration, and shared interests.
If the design is made to exclude the Kurdistan Region from any benefits, it is only natural that we would not support it. At this point, I do not know the exact design of the project, but we are engaged in ongoing discussions to ensure that the Kurdistan Region also benefits from it.”
“Undoubtedly, this project is connected to Türkiye, which has made it clear that they are ready to proceed. Türkiye’s position is straightforward—they see this as an internal Iraqi matter. We believe a solution can be found, and we hope that Baghdad views this project in a way that fosters national cohesion, ensuring that it benefits all sides."
The President of the Kurdistan Region addressed the importance of keeping Iraq insulated from regional conflicts, changes, and wars, stating:
“There are two key points to consider. First, an examination of recent events reveals that the Iraqi Prime Minister and the government have shown considerable wisdom by preventing regional turmoil from spilling over into Iraq. This has been evident since 2003, as highlighted by the parliament speaker, who outlined various phases of this situation. Iraqis are gradually regaining stability, with improved mobility and economic development. Frankly, any deviation from this path could lead to widespread suffering. Regarding the situation in Syria, the Prime Minister made a prudent decision to refrain from deploying armed forces into Syria, which I believe was a wise choice. Without such restraint, Iraq would likely face significant challenges.”
On the topic of the peace process in Türkiye and the Kurdistan Region's involvement, President Nechirvan Barzani remarked:
"I can affirm that this peace initiative is a serious undertaking that has commenced earnestly in Türkiye. It is more than just a tactical maneuver. Our role is to facilitate the resolution of this issue. However, it is clear that this matter cannot be resolved through military means. The call from President Ocalan will serve as a guiding framework for appropriately addressing this concern. I anticipate that this process will be lengthy, and I do not expect a swift resolution. We hope for a transition towards a political solution in Türkiye that will benefit both Kurds and Turks, as well as all communities within Türkiye. We have previously contributed to this dialogue, and I reiterate our readiness in the Kurdistan Region to play any role that promotes closer relations between the involved parties."
Regarding the peace efforts in Türkiye, the DEM party delegation’s visit to the Kurdistan Region included discussions with President Massoud Barzani, the Prime Minister, and the President of the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (PUK), as well as a message from Mr. Abdullah Ocalan. President Nechirvan Barzani stated:
“They conveyed that President Ocalan had requested their visit to the Kurdistan Region to deliver a message of peace. That was the essence of their communication. At that moment, they indicated that President Ocalan wished to announce this message of peace soon. His appeal was directed towards the PKK, urging them to disarm and engage in political dialogue. We expressed our support for this initiative and assured him of our readiness to assist.”
In response to a subsequent inquiry regarding the disarmament of the PKK and the following phase for its members, he remarked:
"While we cannot disclose all the specifics of our discussions, the primary concern is how the PKK will respond to this call. Should they accept it, a conference may be convened by the PKK. The next steps in the process are also crucial. We have communicated our willingness to assist, but the specifics remain unclear, and we await the initial move."
In response to an inquiry regarding the potential for Türkiye to permit Mr. Ocalan to engage in political activities within the country, he stated:
“Yes, it is possible within the context of this process, but we need to be realistic. What happens in Iraq cannot be the same model for Türkiye or Iran; they are very different. However, there is one thing: This process is taking place very carefully and with clear intent. It is essential that the process be strategic, sustainable, and involve patience. We do not rush. This is a complex process, and the issues cannot be resolved overnight; they require time and effort. However, the steps taken so far are crucial, and I hope to see positive outcomes for both Türkiye, the Kurds, and all the involved parties.”
In response to the panelist's final question about the meeting with US President Donald Trump in Paris and discussions with other notable world leaders in Munich regarding the situation in Syria, the President emphasized his efforts to mediate in order to prevent conflict in three neighbourhoods of Aleppo and to facilitate ongoing negotiations between Kurds and the new government.
He stated, "Initially, our primary focus was on ensuring the safety of the Kurds in these three neighborhoods in Aleppo. Türkiye has played a significant role in this matter, and we express our gratitude to the Turkish government for their continued support. The initiative originated from us, as it is our responsibility. The Kurdish people of Syria are our brothers, and when they face difficulties, we feel compelled to assist them to the best of our abilities. We will persist in this endeavor. Our message to our Syrian Kurdish brothers is clear: they must actively engage in the political process in Syria rather than wait for an invitation. It is essential for them to travel to Damascus and participate in shaping the new Syria. The developments in Syria were not only unforeseen for us but likely for Ahmed al-Sharaa as well; I doubt he anticipated the ease with which events unfolded. This situation was not premeditated; it was a collapse reminiscent of the events that occurred in Mosul in 2014. Ahmed al-Sharaa and his group had a specific operation planned for the Aleppo region, but once the collapse began, they moved towards Damascus. This is a historical fact regarding this group. However, it is also important to note that the messages from those in power now indicate a desire to address the issues facing Syria. If their intention is genuinely to resolve these problems, it is imperative that everyone contributes to this effort. Conversely, we have concerns about their inclination towards centralization, which does not align with the diverse nature of Syria, a country characterized by its multi-ethnic and multi-religious composition. All voices must be included in the political process for the new Syria to succeed. This matter is multifaceted. We are pleased with the progress made thus far and are committed to facilitating the political process. To answer your question, we remain actively involved in this issue, collaborating with all parties, with the primary objective of achieving a resolution within the framework of Syria. We are not advocating for a model similar to that of the Kurdistan Region in Iraq. It is neither feasible nor straightforward to replicate the situation in Syria. However, we are confident that if a process is initiated and all Syrian communities engage in it, it will represent a significant triumph for Syria.”
The forum participants subsequently posed numerous questions to President Nechirvan Barzani regarding his stance both within the region and on the international stage, his rapport with President Trump and various global leaders, the role of the Kurdistan Region amid regional transformations, and the Turkish authorities' commitment to the peace process. The President said:
“The decisions of the Kurdistan Region will align with the broader framework of Iraq. Our goal and strategy extend beyond just the Kurdistan Region. And we do enjoy good relations with President Macron and President Trump. Concerning the situation with Hamas and Lebanon, changes have occurred. As Kurds, we have experienced these events firsthand. We have faced immense suffering; our villages have been destroyed, chemical weapons were used against us, and we have endured numerous atrocities. We have not been defeated because we have a cause, just as they have their cause. Even if a military victory is claimed, if Israel views this as a true win without achieving a political solution and continues to pursue military options, it may ultimately harm their interests and the US and all of us. Our priority must be to protect Iraq and the Kurdistan Region from this turmoil, and I appreciate that the Iraqi Prime Minister, as both Prime Minister and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, has not hesitated to take necessary actions.”
Another participant inquired about his views on the comments made by Mr. Bafel Talabani, the leader of the Kurdistan Patriotic Union in Baghdad, regarding the Kurds' participation in the upcoming parliamentary elections under a unified list. The President replied:
“This marks the first occasion on which we have heard such remarks, and we believe that they represent a commendable statement. This situation necessitates that the political forces in Kurdistan convene to reach a consensus. If we regard Mr. Bafel's initiative positively, we will continue to heed his words. It is evident that when the people of Kurdistan unite, they can achieve better outcomes, which has been demonstrated in the past.”
“Regarding the status of journalists, it is essential to recognize that conditions have improved compared to previous times. While some aspects are better, we remain committed to further improvements. The essence of the Kurdistan Region lies in its democratic principles, which grant individuals the freedom to express their opinions. Upholding these standards is vital for the identity of the Kurdistan Region.”
“In our region, we welcome the presence of an opposition, as it balances and complements the governing authority. While our democratic practices might not perfectly align with those of Western nations, the crucial question is whether we have made progress. I believe we have made advancements in several respects.”
“It is noteworthy that on the final day of the elections, two significant campaigns were launched in Erbil: one by the PUK, supported by its members and followers, and the other by the KDP, also backed by its supporters. This reflects the people of Kurdistan’s understanding of democracy, which warrants both recognition and respect.”
“Unlike previous elections that encountered numerous challenges, this process in Erbil reflects a commitment to democratic principles. Democracy is not merely a gift; it is a continuous journey that must be pursued gradually. Teachers and salaried workers in the Kurdistan Region inherently have the right to advocate for their rights and livelihoods. However, I would like to approach this matter from a different perspective. During my time as prime minister, a person from Slemani remarked, "With all due respect, you have surpassed Nuri Said in your role as prime minister." This individual was also from Slemani.
Tell me which prime minister wants to accumulate wealth, have their government hoard funds, and not pay employees' salaries. Where in the world does this happen?”
“While challenges do exist, they are being addressed. The Kurdistan Regional Government is actively working to resolve these issues and has been transparent in its engagement with Baghdad. It would be inaccurate to say that the Kurdistan Regional Government has neglected its responsibilities; in fact, they have made substantial efforts to fulfill them. We are also indebted to the employees of the Kurdistan Region and must continuously express our gratitude to them because they have endured hardships. We should keep appreciating them, as they understand the political and economic situation and the challenges between us and Baghdad. They truly deserve recognition. We remain hopeful that the commencement of oil exports will be facilitated by the Federal Court's decision and the initiatives of the Iraqi parliament and president, leading to a resolution elsewhere.”
In response to the last inquiry regarding the potential for a peace process between the Kurdish parties and the Islamic Republic of Iran in East Kurdistan, as well as his role in facilitating this, President Nechirvan Barzani stated:
"We have consistently sought to maintain positive relations with the Islamic Republic of Iran. Naturally, there have been challenges. While we have our issues, my visits to Iran last year, including meetings with Iranian officials, were significant. Notably, I had the opportunity to meet with the Supreme Leader of the Islamic Republic of Iran, Ayatollah Khamenei. Additionally, the Iranian president visited the Kurdistan Region and delivered remarks in Kurdish during his address in Erbil. His proficiency in Kurdish surpasses that of his Persian. I once remarked to him that he had a noticeable accent in Persian, whereas he did not in Kurdish. He responded, 'Mr. Barzani, your Persian is far superior to your Kurdish.' I acknowledged that this might be true. While these visits are important, I want to emphasize a fundamental principle: the Kurdistan Region does not pose a threat and will not allow its territory to be used as a threat against the Islamic Republic of Iran. There are ongoing issues with Iraq, but these security matters have been addressed through a collaborative committee involving the Kurdistan Region, Iraq, and Iran. I wish to clarify that we support any resolution to these issues, but they remain internal matters. Should we be called upon to play a role, we will certainly do so; however, we do not wish to interfere in the political affairs of any neighboring nation. Our primary responsibility lies with the Iraqi Kurdistan Region, and we are committed to fulfilling that duty. We will contribute to this context, and if we can assist our brothers elsewhere, we will do so with great pride."
Upon finishing his remarks, the President stated:
“I extend my sincere gratitude to the President of Iraq, Dr. Abdul Latif Rashid, for his understanding and support. I also wish to express my appreciation to the Speaker of the Iraqi Parliament, Dr. Mahmoud al-Mashhadani, for his patience. A special acknowledgment goes to Mr. Zryan, as well as to Rudaw, and I warmly welcome all the guests who have traveled from abroad, including those from Baghdad, Iran, Türkiye, Europe, and beyond. Thank you.”
