Masoud Barzani, head of the Kurdistan Democratic Party, called on the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan to engage in dialogue to end the ongoing political crisis in northern Iraq's Kurdistan Region, in a move aimed at overcoming internal divisions. Meanwhile, the Kurdistan Region government announced that its Prime Minister, Masrour Barzani, will visit the capital Baghdad to discuss outstanding files with the federal government.
Dialogue to End the Crisis
Barzani's call comes after the head of the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan, Qubad Talabani, announced on Thursday the withdrawal of his party from the regional government, refusing to recognize the decisions of its parliament or any government emanating from it, while hinting at the formation of a parallel authority. The regional parliament held its first session on Wednesday, after about two years, electing a speaker and a deputy speaker, amidst a boycott by the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan and the New Generation movement.
Calls for Dialogue
Masoud Barzani stated in a statement reported by the Iraqi News Agency (WAQ), that "the interest of the people of Iraqi Kurdistan supersedes all other interests and goals." He urged the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan to sit down with the Kurdistan Democratic Party and work together to resolve differences. He expressed hope that other political forces in the region would participate in forming a "national government with a broad base" that responds to the demands and aspirations of the people of Iraqi Kurdistan.
Visit to Baghdad
In a separate development, a spokesperson for the regional government, Bishara Horami, told WAQ that Masrour Barzani will visit Baghdad on Monday to hold a series of meetings with Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi and leaders of political parties and forces. He added that the visit aims to discuss the financial budget and outstanding files between Baghdad and Erbil, and that the negotiations will focus on "addressing controversial issues in accordance with the constitution, agreements, and political understandings."
A delegation from the regional government had arrived in Baghdad on Sunday to present its observations on the draft federal budget law for 2027 and to discuss securing financial dues for the region and its employees, according to a statement by the regional government.
Source: Anadolu Agency
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