پەرلەمانی کوردستان
Erbil, Kurdistan Region, October 30, 2024
On the evening of Wednesday, October 30, 2024, President Nechirvan Barzani took part in a panel discussion at the Middle East Research Institute (MERI) forum. The event was attended by a large number of government and party officials, representatives from foreign nations, university academics, and distinguished local and international personalities.
The following is a readout of his remarks and answers:
In the panel discussion, when asked about the initiatives to carry out the sixth parliamentary election in Kurdistan and the significance of this election, the President stated:
“I am glad to be present once again at the MERI Forum and to extend my greetings to all attendees. The electoral process holds significant importance for the Kurdistan Region. As you are aware, elections serve as a foundation of legitimacy for the authority within the Kurdistan Region, and the postponement of these elections has had detrimental effects on Kurdistan. It is important to acknowledge that, through considerable effort and collaboration with Baghdad, which I wish to highlight, we received substantial support from that direction. Prime Minister Mr. Mohamed Shia Sudani, President of the Judiciary Mr. Faiq Zeidan, President of the Federal Court Mr. Jasim Muhammad Abboud, and the Iraqi Parliament as a whole have all provided their assistance. I would like to express my sincere gratitude to the Iraqi High Electoral Commission for executing its responsibilities with professionalism and impartiality.
“Elections hold significant importance as they bestow legitimacy upon the individuals who prevail in the electoral process. Within the context of Iraq, Kurdistan has adopted this democratic model. Similarly, Iraq has embraced this approach, which facilitates the resolution of authority through electoral means. Consequently, the significance of elections for Kurdistan cannot be overstated. I am pleased to report that a substantial portion of the Kurdistani population participated in this election, with turnout reaching nearly 72%. While minor issues were encountered, as is common in elections globally, an overall assessment reveals that Kurdistan's democratic process is progressing positively in comparison to other electoral systems.
“I do not assert that everything is flawless or devoid of challenges; however, through a democratic process, the citizens of Kurdistan have demonstrated their capacity for even greater advancement. Our people merits recognition for their efforts. Consider the scenario where two opposing parties simultaneously organized substantial election rallies in different areas of Erbil, each advocating for their respective agendas, and there were no incidents whatsoever. This exemplifies that our society has attained a level of maturity that allows us to confront issues through democratic means. We have achieved considerable progress, and I extend my congratulations to all the people of Kurdistan for this election, which has proven to be remarkably successful by all standards.
In response to the grievances expressed by certain opposition parties concerning the electoral process and the election outcomes, which stand in contrast to the endorsements from UNAMI and other international entities, as well as the apprehensions regarding the possible difficulties in establishing the new Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) cabinet, President Nechirvan Barzani remarked:
“The people of Kurdistan have achieved success in this endeavor. The opposition is also an integral part of this nation and the political parties currently active in the Kurdistan Region. The recent elections have concluded, and we have successfully conducted them. It is imperative that we do not remain in a state of perpetual electoral turmoil, engaging in mutual criticism. Instead, we must collaborate, as the challenges that await us are far more significant than those we have already faced. Should there be an opposition, it can fulfill its responsibilities within the parliament.
“The presence of an opposition within any political framework plays a crucial role in overseeing the government and evaluating its effectiveness, and we perceive it in this manner. Certain parties will take on the role of the ruling authority, while others will function as the opposition within the parliament. However, we do not regard each other as adversaries—those in power do not view the opposition as foes, nor does the opposition consider the government as an enemy. While there exists political competition, we do not stand as adversaries. I am convinced that all political entities in Kurdistan are now confronted with a significant challenge.
“Seventy-two percent of the population in Kurdistan engaged in the electoral process, conveying a significant message to both us and the political entities: the citizens have entrusted us with their confidence, and it is imperative that we fulfill the expectations that accompany this trust. Political entities must recognize that the electoral process has concluded. It is finished. Each of us contributed to ensuring that the election resonated with the electorate, who cast their votes for their preferred party. This phase is now complete, and dwelling on it will only be detrimental to our interests. What are the potential harms of such dwelling?
“Significant transformations are occurring in the region, and it is imperative that we do not jeopardize the trust of our citizens once more. We must prioritize the formation of a government as swiftly as possible, although the exact timeline remains uncertain. It is essential to initiate discussions among the various factions and advance the process. Today, the Electoral Commission officially declared the results, and there are additional steps and protocols that must be adhered to. In accordance with the law, the President of the Kurdistan Region is required to convene a parliamentary session to finalize this process.
“It is my conviction that certain political entities have already initiated dialogues among themselves, and ultimately, the distribution of seats will dictate the potential collaborations and capabilities of these entities. The focus is on the allocation of seats and numerical representation, as there is little else to depend upon. A coalition government must be established based on these figures. Political entities should prioritize this aspect, given that no single party in Kurdistan possesses a sufficient number of seats to govern independently. Consequently, collaboration with others is essential to form a coalition. The paramount objective is to establish a government promptly, one that aligns with the diverse expectations of the people of Kurdistan. This is of utmost importance for both Kurdistan and its position within Baghdad.”
In reference to the apprehensions surrounding political statements and discussions that contradict the President's optimistic outlook, as well as the responsibilities of the Presidency of the Kurdistan Region in the forthcoming phase, the President remarked:
“An examination of the electoral process reveals that elections have been conducted three or four times; however, the same issues continue to be raised. It is often stated that elections cannot proceed due to the unwillingness of the KDP and PUK to collaborate. Additionally, concerns are expressed that holding elections could lead to significant challenges or exacerbate existing problems. Nevertheless, despite these apprehensions, a call for elections was issued, and no substantial issues emerged. We have arrived at this point.
“In addressing the issue of the two administrations in Erbil and Sulaymaniyah, I have previously stated that we must either establish a single unified administration for the entire Kurdistan Region or forgo any form of administration altogether. This indicates that the existence of two separate administrations is not viable. The Kurdistan Region operates within a constitutional framework, and nearly eighty percent of the Iraqi populace has endorsed this framework through their votes. Consequently, the Kurdistan Region is recognized as a political entity within the context of Iraq and in accordance with the Iraqi constitution. It is essential that the governance of the region is clearly defined in alignment with the constitution and that its implementation is appropriately outlined.
“The concerns articulated about governance prompt us to consider our current position. We have successfully conducted an election, which can be deemed highly successful. The question of the legitimacy of the Kurdistan Region's administrations has evolved both internally and externally since 1991. This recent election stands as the most pivotal for the Kurdistan Region. In light of the resolutions achieved, it is imperative that we develop a framework that facilitates our engagement with Baghdad. However, the question remains: how can we effectively resolve these issues?
“It is essential to first establish order within your own domain; you must clearly define your objectives and ensure the establishment of a functional Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) that effectively serves its constituents. A robust government is one that can adeptly respond to the needs and demands of the populace. We must explore avenues to resolve our issues with Baghdad. It is important to clarify that the relationship between Baghdad and the Kurdistan Region does not embody a federal structure; rather, it is predominantly centralized. While Iraq's system may be described as federal in name, its practical application lacks true federal characteristics. I have engaged in continuous dialogue with Baghdad, which extends beyond this particular context.
“I have engaged in open discussions with our counterparts in Baghdad, as well as with various political factions there. I emphasized that for Iraq to achieve stability and maintain a peaceful political environment, it is essential to resolve the issues concerning the Kurdistan Region. Since 2003, our dialogues have been grounded in a constitutional framework; however, the practical application of this framework appears lacking. It is important to note that my focus is not solely on Baghdad; I am also addressing matters related to the Kurdistan Region.
“This election presents a significant opportunity to forge a new agreement with Baghdad that honors the status of the Kurdistan Region while benefiting all Iraqis. It is crucial that we prioritize the establishment of a robust and effective government promptly, enabling us to engage in meaningful dialogue with Baghdad on the various issues at hand. These issues encompass not only the budget and Article 140 but also a range of other challenges that require our attention.
“In 2003, the people of Kurdistan engaged in Iraq's political process with the aspiration of transforming the nation into a democratic and federal state. Prior to this year, our circumstances mirrored those we face today; little has evolved. Nevertheless, we took an active role in the political arena to facilitate the establishment of this system. Currently, the pressing question is the direction we should take moving forward. How long will we continue to emphasize 'constitution’ without witnessing any tangible actions towards its implementation?
“Foreign nations, particularly those in Europe and America, have historically been the most significant allies of Kurdistan and Iraq. It is imperative that they assist us in the implementation of the Iraqi constitution in Baghdad. In discussions with our partners in Baghdad, I have expressed my perspective that they perceive the Kurdistan Region as lacking regard for Baghdad, viewing our authority as confederal rather than federal. Conversely, from our standpoint in Erbil, we contend that the approach taken by Baghdad is not genuinely federal; instead, it appears to be more centralized. This raises the question: where does the truth lie between these two differing perspectives?
“The resolution of our issues lies in uncovering the truth. Our strategy for the Kurdistan Region is unequivocal; we aim to address the concerns of the Kurdistan Region within the constitutional framework of Iraq. This is a straightforward position. Concerning past events and the mistakes that occurred, I believe that both parties have played a role in this situation. Responsibility is shared between the Kurdistan Region and Baghdad. It is not my intention to assign blame solely to Baghdad or to the Kurdistan Region; rather, I wish to emphasize that the future of Iraq hinges on establishing a model that honors our agreements and fosters collaboration between us.
“A robust government is essential in the Kurdistan Region, necessitating political parties to collaborate and address ongoing challenges. The people have expressed their views and made their electoral choices clear. It is imperative that this matter reaches a resolution. We are not adversaries; rather, we are political allies, and both the opposition and the ruling parties are essential for the nation's progress. We share a common purpose and must support one another to ensure the timely implementation of this process. As the president of the Kurdistan Region, I acknowledge my legal and moral responsibilities, and I am committed to exercising that authority to establish a government promptly. All parties must sincerely assess the electoral outcomes. It is crucial to reevaluate the distribution of seats, as the previous governance model in Kurdistan cannot persist. This is a new era, and we must adopt a different approach to the unfolding events.”
The President addressed the potential for establishing a government in the Kurdistan Region without the involvement of the PUK or KDP.
“It is not possible without the KDP and PUK. The dynamics of power in the Kurdistan Region are evident. While one party may have experienced a slight increase or decrease in seats, that is a separate matter. I approached this matter with diplomacy; however, if further clarification is desired, I would assert that the number of seats and votes serve as significant indicators.”
Regarding the formation of a government that includes both the PUK and KDP, as well as the discussions concerning the oil dossier with Baghdad, President Nechirvan Barzani stated:
“You highlighted the importance of priorities in Baghdad. Indeed, the salary and welfare of the people of Kurdistan are of utmost significance. To date, we have conducted trilateral meetings involving the Prime Minister, the Federal Court, and the Chief Justice, all concentrating on the salary issue. During discussions with the Prime Minister, I emphasized that a trilateral meeting would be the most effective approach. We initially engaged with the Chief Justice for one discussion and consulted other parties separately, after which we convened as a group. Subsequently, we executed this plan, and Dr. Ali was present at one of the meetings. Our gathering in Baghdad provided clarity on the matter. The Federal Court's ruling regarding salaries for employees in the Kurdistan Region was elucidated, and the Prime Minister made a strong commitment to uphold it. Thus far, I believe there has been a concerted effort within this framework to adequately address these concerns.
“Certain factions perceive the oil issue through a political lens; however, we have consistently regarded oil as an economic concern rather than a political one. Politics is irrelevant in this context. An examination of Kurdistan’s geography reveals that oil should not be classified as a political issue—it is fundamentally a commercial commodity, and that is our perspective. Fortunately, Turkey has permitted us to export it. Turkey has not derived any benefit from this arrangement; rather, it has been more of a support to Iraq and the Kurdistan Region. We have not sold our oil to Turkey, nor has there been any pressure from Turkey for us to do so.
“The oil has been sold to international corporations, with numerous companies worldwide purchasing it. In light of the current circumstances, where oil exports via the pipeline have ceased, Iraq is experiencing the most significant repercussions. It is estimated that Iraq has suffered a loss approaching $15 billion. Since the closure of the pipeline from the Kurdistan Region, this figure may have exceeded $15 billion. Is this situation justifiable? Is Baghdad not taking this into account? It has been stated that the contract in the Kurdistan Region differs from that of Iraq. Our agreement is based on a partnership model, wherein companies are required to accept the associated risks.
“The prevailing situation in Iraq primarily involves service contracts, with certain areas, such as Gayara, incurring costs of approximately $26 to $27 for each barrel produced. This raises the question of why companies are requesting only $20 for operations in the Kurdistan Region. This matter remains unresolved. I would like to take this opportunity to encourage Baghdad to approach this issue from a logical and economic perspective rather than a political one. It is essential to assess where Iraq is incurring losses and where it is benefiting. In my opinion, the optimal solution would be to classify the oil from the Kurdistan Region as Iraqi oil, allowing it to enter the pipeline for export. The challenge does not stem from Turkey; rather, it originates from Baghdad and the parliament. Ultimately, Iraq has been the primary loser in this situation, and it is imperative that this issue is addressed.”
In addressing the inquiry concerning the present circumstances in the region and their effects on the Kurdistan Region, along with the discussions between the United States and Iraq regarding the withdrawal of military forces from Iraq and their stance on this issue, the President stated:
“In response to the initial inquiry, it is evident that a significant conflict exists in the wider region. Nevertheless, it is crucial for Kurdistan, in collaboration with Baghdad, to strive to prevent Iraq from descending into that turmoil, given the multitude of interrelated challenges facing the country. The circumstances in Iraq are distinctive; for us in the Kurdistan Region, the paramount objective is to avoid becoming ensnared in the prevailing chaos, as the advancement of both Iraq and the Kurdistan Region is contingent upon this framework.
Moderator: “Several factions in Iraq are attempting to escalate the conflict within the country by utilizing drones and various other armaments.”
“It is indeed a valid point, but let us examine the situation closely. How many of the groups you referenced were present in the past? There were 12, and now only two remain. This indicates that Iraq has made progress. Previously, approximately 12 armed factions were involved in these operations, and now only two or three of those factions continue to engage in such activities. However, the critical question is whether this situation aligns with Iraq's interests. From our viewpoint in the Kurdistan Region, it is clear that this cannot be in Iraq's best interest. Iraq must seek to distance itself from the ongoing turmoil in the region, as the circumstances within the country are precarious, and its institutions are not particularly robust.
“Iraq remains in a transitional phase, prompting some to question why this status persists since 2003. It is important to recognize that state-building is inherently a gradual process that cannot be accomplished overnight. The responsibility lies with us; no external entity will undertake this task on our behalf. However, it is essential to evaluate Iraq's current situation, particularly in terms of security. Is the security landscape in Iraq comparable to what it was six years ago? Fortunately, we can observe significant improvements in this regard, and there are no indications that the country will revert to previous chaos. In my opinion, it is crucial for the Iraqi President and Prime Minister, as the commander of the armed forces, to ensure that all political factions support the Prime Minister's efforts. We must collectively reject any notion of allowing Iraq to descend into disorder. It is imperative to back the Prime Minister and all political entities, as he is diligently working to steer Iraq away from such challenges.
“In reference to allies, it is important to acknowledge that the international coalition led by the United States has provided substantial support to Iraq in its battle against terrorism. We must express our gratitude to the allied forces that assisted Iraq during its challenging times. These forces, which were deployed at Iraq's request, were not numerous, yet they played a crucial role in offering assistance against terrorism. As we mark a decade since 2014, Iraq is now in a position to reflect on its current needs. Undoubtedly, the circumstances in Iraq have improved since 2014; the security situation has enhanced, and the economy has shown signs of progress. Thankfully, security concerns in Baghdad have diminished, and there is a proliferation of hotels, restaurants, and various projects. This represents significant advancement for Iraq. As a sovereign nation, Iraq should now pose critical questions and evaluate its journey over the past years to determine its future direction.
“The perspective we adopt regarding the Kurdistan Region is crucial; our evaluation indicates that ISIS continues to represent a threat to the stability of both Iraq and the surrounding area. During its assault on Iraq in 2014, ISIS targeted not only the Shia and Kurds but also the Sunni population. We collectively faced the same destiny as Iraqis and endured that calamity together. In the aftermath, the blood of all was spilled in unison—Peshmerga, Iraqi army, and Popular Mobilization Forces—who stood united in the defense of Iraq, with no distinctions made in this sacrifice.
“It is our current assessment that Iraq requires external assistance and support, particularly from the United States, which has been at the forefront of this coalition. However, Iraq aspires for this support to evolve into a bilateral relationship, which is a reasonable expectation that emphasizes the importance of mutual rights and responsibilities. The Kurdistan Region has not requested the United States to maintain a presence in Erbil until 2026; rather, the decision will be determined through the ongoing negotiations with Iraq. The strategic dialogue currently taking place between the United States and Iraq also includes the participation of the Kurdistan Region in this process.
“It is essential that the Kurdistan Region is not the sole entity engaged in discussions regarding the presence of American forces. Currently, the Kurdistan Region is part of this ongoing dialogue. It is crucial to establish clarity on several points: the positioning of these forces, the manner of their deployment, and the specific roles and responsibilities they will undertake. Although this dialogue has not formally commenced, there is a significant conversation taking place with the Kurdistan Region. Any decisions made will be within the context of Iraq, and our position will align with this framework rather than operate independently. We will recognize that concerns are shared regarding Iraq, and we will coordinate with Baghdad and the various political factions within the country. All matters will be addressed with transparency, and any decisions will be made in accordance with the political landscape of Iraq.”
In reference to the arrival of coalition forces in the Kurdistan Region in 2026, President Nechirvan Barzani remarked:
“The primary consideration is the mission of these forces. Their objective appears to be to support Iraq in its efforts to combat ISIS. When viewed in the context of Iraq, we do not perceive it as a threat; however, greater clarity on this matter is necessary.”
In a subsequent statement concerning President Nechirvan Barzani's address to the youth of Kurdistan during this critical period and the approach to engage with their concerns, the President of the Kurdistan Region remarked:
“I would like to extend my heartfelt congratulations on your (the moderator) appointment as the president of the American university, and I sincerely wish you great success in this role. Based on my knowledge of you over the years, I am confident in your ability to excel in this position. To the youth, I would like to emphasize that our fathers and grandparents in Kurdistan each have a story that reflects their experiences of suffering, hardship, the Anfal campaign, and captivity. The people of Kurdistan, in varying degrees, have all been impacted by these events. Their sacrifices and struggles were aimed at ensuring that we could witness this day; they fought valiantly and did not succumb, ultimately becoming martyrs.
“It is crucial for the youth to understand that our current circumstances are built upon the foundations laid by previous struggles. Those who came before us fought valiantly and made significant sacrifices to pave the way for our present. The global landscape has evolved, including the situation in the Kurdistan Region. Education remains a pivotal issue. Observing the nations that have achieved substantial development, it is evident that their progress is largely attributed to prioritizing education. Numerous examples exist, with South Korea and Singapore standing out prominently. During my visits to Korea, I inquired about the source of their remarkable advancement, and the consistent response was that it all began with a commitment to education. They possess neither oil nor gas; their primary focus has been on fostering educational growth.
“A nation that was once impoverished has now transformed into a highly developed country. The youth in this nation should not succumb to despair; it is essential for their country to thrive. Their education must be designed to foster national prosperity, and they should be actively engaged in this evolving process. Ultimately, the fate of these young individuals will be determined over time. The future hinges on their involvement; any country or nation that successfully integrates its youth into the political landscape is poised for success.
“There exists a considerable pool of talented young individuals, and I personally oversee their educational pursuits. I have observed that many of them face financial challenges that hinder their ability to continue their studies; nevertheless, they demonstrate remarkable perseverance. I am committed to supporting them in acquiring knowledge and accessing external resources. The potential within Kurdistan is immense, and our youth possess a wealth of abilities. As a responsible individual, my message is to prioritize education, strive for national prosperity, work diligently, and seek improvement. It is essential to rectify existing mistakes, as these young people represent the future of our nation. They will eventually find themselves in other countries, questioning their rights, which is a dire situation for any nation. It is imperative that they engage actively and foster a deep love for their homeland above all else.
“My objective is to ensure that education is given utmost priority; universities must recognize their responsibilities in fostering national prosperity and advancement. The matter of coexistence in this region holds great importance; since the emergence of ISIS in 2014, the Muslim community in Duhok has extended support to their Christian and Yazidi counterparts. This represents a remarkable display of unity that must be preserved; it should not be allowed to disintegrate for any reason. The spirit of coexistence and mutual acceptance in the Kurdistan Region deserves to be continuously celebrated and honored, both in the present and for future generations.
“During the time of oppression by the former regime, the distinction between our villages based on religious affiliation—be it Christian, Yazidi, Muslim, Shiite, or Sunni—was irrelevant; all were affected. The hardships we endured should serve as a reminder that future coexistence must be embraced by everyone. Political sectarianism should not dictate the actions of any party; rather, the matter of coexistence must always be viewed through a political lens, with respect being paramount. It is my hope that the younger generation will persist in this endeavor and ultimately achieve success.”
In addressing the inquiry about their readiness to engage in a dialogue concerning the Turkish government's initiatives aimed at sustaining the peace process in Turkey, along with the government's renewed strategy on this issue and the obstacles encountered in seeking a Kurdish resolution amidst the ongoing regional transformations, President Nechirvan Barzani remarked:
“In discussing the matter of peace in Turkey, it is essential to acknowledge that the current government has facilitated notable progress in Kurdish affairs. A thorough examination of the situation reveals that significant developments have occurred; in the past, it was considerably more challenging for to openly identify as Kurdish. Today, we have access to Kurdish television, and various issues that were once straightforward in the Kurdistan Region have been addressed, although they remain complex within Turkey. The Kurdistan Region has been actively engaged in promoting this cause since 2011 and earlier, and we welcome the prospect of a peace process commencing in Turkey.
“We are pleased to witness the conclusion of this process, as it pertains to a national concern. During my recent visit to Turkey, we articulated our perspectives on this issue and are encouraged that any initiation of the process should not only benefit Turkey but also provide support to the broader region. It is essential, however, that this process is managed effectively to prevent any potential failures. The events that transpired in Ankara were not intended to influence the outcomes of these discussions. Although there was an established process and ongoing developments, this incident inflicted substantial damage, which cannot be considered minor. We are optimistic that this will mark the beginning of a new process, and the events leading up to this point are significant. You may have noted the remarks made by the Speaker of Parliament, and the statements from the esteemed President of the Republic today are all promising, as they indicate that a process is underway and that the issues at hand will be addressed.
“The PKK represents a significant challenge not only for Turkey but also for us. It demonstrates a lack of regard for our institutions and for us, indicating a broader disregard for the regional institutions. The PKK must cease its current activities. If it genuinely seeks to contribute to a political resolution in Turkey, it must adopt a new approach. The dynamics of the region have transformed, presenting an opportunity to address the existing issues. It is important to recognize that the Kurdish situation in the Kurdistan Region is more critical and distinct compared to that in Iran, Turkey, and Syria. This is a complex matter. However, what is our stance on this?
“We advocate for addressing the challenges faced by the people of Kurdistan within the respective nations of Syria, Turkey, and Iran, ensuring that their rights are recognized. Our position emphasizes the importance of resolving these matters through peaceful dialogue with the governments of these countries. We believe that disarmament and military interventions will not effectively resolve the underlying issues. Consequently, it is essential for the Kurds, regardless of their location, to seek solutions to their concerns within the context of their own nations.”
Regarding the issues between Erbil and Baghdad, President Nechirvan Barzani said:
“In my view, a contributing factor to the issue may be our incomplete understanding of the underlying problems. During my time in Baghdad, I engaged in an open dialogue with the Coordination Framework, spending an extensive evening in discussion with them, as well as with the President of the Federal Court. Their insights suggest that it would be beneficial for them to visit Erbil promptly to engage with our universities, as they appeared to exhibit a greater concern than we do regarding the implementation of the constitution.
“The information I have gathered regarding the federal issue indicates a lack of understanding in both discourse and resolution. The core problem lies in the absence of a defined stance or mechanism, leading to a neglect of significant principles. These principles are essential for achieving substantial political stability in Iraq, which ultimately benefits the entire nation.
“The Kurdish issue represents a significant challenge within this nation. To illustrate this point, I refer to a previously mentioned example. In 1970, the government entered into an agreement with the late Mullah Mustafa Barzani, which is commonly referred to as the March 11 agreement. Due to a lack of faith in this agreement, Baghdad initiated a conflict in 1974 aimed at quelling the Kurdish revolution. However, Iraq was unable to suppress the revolution, which compelled it to reach a compromise with the Shah of Iran, conceding half of Shatul Arabi. Iraq subsequently engaged in an eight-year conflict with the Islamic Republic of Iran in an effort to reclaim that territory. This period is part of our recent history, during which approximately one million lives were lost and countless individuals were displaced.
“The Iraqi authorities should have recognized the significance of the Kurdish issue as a critical matter requiring a fundamental resolution. Iraq endured eight years of conflict and accumulated substantial debt, which ultimately compelled the nation to invade Kuwait. My intention is not to recount history merely as a narrative, but to draw lessons from it. It is imperative that we adopt a strategic approach to address these challenges. The current situation is not a viable solution. What is the state of Iraq today? Conversations with the Sunni population reveal their ongoing fears regarding the future. Discussions with the Shiite community often revolve around their historical grievances. Meanwhile, the Kurds express apprehension about their past, present, and future. This situation must be addressed eventually; it cannot persist indefinitely. What are the pathways to resolution? The prevailing dynamic of power, where one party is strong and the other is weak, will not lead to a resolution.
“This matter will be addressed through dialogue, meetings, compromise, and adaptability. If a resolution is achieved, it is likely to yield a beneficial effect on other nations, leading to a significant transformation in the situation in Iraq. Thus, this approach represents the strategy of the Kurdistan Region, applicable both in the present context and in the periods surrounding the elections. It is also important to note that the prime minister does not unilaterally make all decisions. Reaching an agreement with the prime minister is merely the initial step; subsequent discussions with other political forces and parties are essential. This particular model of governance is unique to Iraq and the Kurdistan Region.
“The Kurdistan Region is unequivocally committed to being a significant contributor to stability in the region, particularly in relation to Turkey and Iran, while also supporting Iraq. Our relationship with Turkey is robust, with trade between Turkey and Iraq amounting to approximately $12 billion, if I recall correctly. Over the past year, we have made substantial progress in addressing issues with Iran. My visits to Tehran, including discussions with the Supreme Leader of the Islamic Republic of Iran, Ayatollah Khamenei, and the President, along with the Iranian President's visits to Erbil and Baghdad, as well as the Turkish President's earlier visit to Erbil, have demonstrated that we are entering a new phase in our relations. We aspire to continue being a source of security for our neighbors and to assist Baghdad. All our actions have been executed in close coordination with Baghdad; our movements have always been aligned with their guidance. The Kurdistan Region stands ready to provide significant support to Baghdad now and in the future.”
Regarding the formation of the new cabinet in Kurdistan Region, the President said:
“Forming a new cabinet will present significant challenges. It is important to be candid and manage public expectations by stating our commitment to establishing a new cabinet at the earliest opportunity. We need to acknowledge the political realities in the Kurdistan Region. Additionally, it is crucial to move beyond the current electoral atmosphere. This new phase should be understood in its true context, and we should collectively strive to address the issues at hand.”
In addressing a further inquiry from the attendees regarding the matter of oil in the Kurdistan Region, the President stated:
“Our perspective on the oil matter has been previously articulated: we regard oil as a commercial entity rather than a political one. However, the oil sector has generated billions of dollars for the Kurdistan Region, both in the present and historically. The focus should be on the effectiveness of the oil process rather than on past successes or failures. It is important to note that, according to the constitution, oil is considered the property of all Iraqi citizens. The initiation of oil exports was a response to Baghdad's decision to cut the budget allocated to the Kurdistan Region. We must recall that we reached an agreement with Baghdad stipulating that if they failed to meet their obligations to the Kurdistan Region, we would have to take action. It was never our intention to operate independently of Baghdad, as the Kurdish issue is inherently complex.
“Consequently, an oil pipeline was constructed and exported via Turkey. This was a significant undertaking, representing a substantial shift in perspective. However, this initiative was not solely beneficial for Kurdistan; it also had implications for Iraq as a whole. It is crucial that this matter is addressed with the seriousness it deserves in Baghdad, as the repercussions of not permitting the pipeline's operation are considerable for Iraq. It is my hope that this issue will be resolved promptly.”
At the end of the panel discussion, President Nechirvan Barzani expressed his gratitude to the organizers of the annual meeting, with particular appreciation for Dr. Dilawar Alaaddin, who extended invitations to a large number of people from Iraq, Kurdistan, and beyond to share their perspectives in this forum and engage in discussions on scientific subjects.
