Kurdistan: the Glorious Past and the Exciting Future

[Anthea]

KDP Invites All Parties to Join

Government Formation

Kurdish leader Masoud Barzani, president of the Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP), led a crucial meeting of the KDP Central Committee on Saturday, focusing on the Kurdistan Region’s sixth parliamentary elections and regional developments

In a statement following the meeting, the KDP expressed gratitude to the Kurdish people for their support, securing the party as the leading force in parliamentary seats and votes. The KDP reiterated its commitment to protecting the Kurdistan Region’s interests while respecting neighboring countries' sovereignty. It emphasized the importance of stability in Iraq amid regional tensions.

The committee urged all political parties to participate in forming a comprehensive government, asserting that the KDP has no veto against any group. "It is essential to safeguard the Region’s stability with an inclusive government that serves the people and respects their rights and freedoms," the statement said.

Discussions also covered Iraq’s internal affairs and the wider region’s geopolitical climate, with a focus on stability and security. The KDP reaffirmed its commitment to conducting its activities in a way that reflects its values and legacy.

The committee also reviewed the KDP’s media strategy, praising the contributions of media officials, journalists, and communication teams. They highlighted the need to counter misrepresentations from rivals with a respectful and constructive approach, urging all party members and media outlets to uphold the KDP’s values in their messaging.

The Kurdistan Region held its sixth parliamentary elections on October 20, with over 2 million voters participating across four constituencies—Erbil, Duhok, Sulaimani, and Halabja—achieving a 72% voter turnout. IHEC Chairperson Omar Ahmed Mohammed praised the smooth and well-organized electoral process, crediting extensive preparations for its success.

https://www.basnews.com/en/babat/864674

[Anthea]

11 Agricultural Factories Opened

The Chairman of the Kurdistan Board of Investment (KIB) has announced that eleven factories producing various agricultural products have been opened during the ninth cabinet of the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG)

Dr. Mohammed Shukri, Chairman of the Kurdistan Investment Board, told BasNews on Sunday that significant attention has been given to the industry and agriculture sectors in the ninth cabinet of the Kurdistan Region government.

"We have licensed more than 55 factories, and we plan to increase the level of investment from 30 percent to 50 percent," he said.

"116 projects in the industrial sector and 17 projects in agriculture have been licensed," Shukri added

He noted that eleven factories for various agricultural products have commenced operations, and food industry zones have been established.

"We have brought domestic products to the world market for the first time and sold farmers' products. The largest dairy factory, with a capacity of 120,000 liters, includes several feed factories, hospitals, whitening factories, and dairy cow breeding facilities," he explained.

He highlighted that the largest factory for cable production and manufacturing in Iraq and the region was opened in Erbil at a cost of $100 million, producing 80,000 tons of cable annually.

"If the factory operates in all three shifts, it will provide more than 750 jobs, which is another achievement of this cabinet," he concluded.

https://www.basnews.com/en/babat/864786

[Anthea]

We will form delegation for

inclusive political dialogue

Hawrami emphasized the importance of approaching negotiations with a unified Kurdish spirit, advocating for "one region, one government, one parliament, and one Peshmerga force."

ERBIL (Kurdistan24) - Hemin Hawrami, Head of the Kurdistan Democratic Party's (KDP) Organizational Bureau, announced on Tuesday that his party will form a delegation to engage in comprehensive discussions with all political parties, emphasizing there are "no vetoes against any party."

During a press conference, Hawrami outlined the KDP's post-election strategy, stating, "The KDP remains committed to its campaign promises of bringing stability, prosperity, and unity. We must work together to build resilience."

"We have announced our program for the KRG's tenth cabinet within the framework of KDP's principles," Hawrami explained. "Other parties have their programs as well, and it's crucial to identify common ground among these platforms."

Hawrami emphasized the importance of approaching negotiations with a unified Kurdish spirit, advocating for "one region, one government, one parliament, and one Peshmerga force."

He stressed the need for a comprehensive four-year program without "halfway partnerships," indicating the party's commitment to sustained cooperation with all political entities.

"Our doors remain open for dialogue with all parties based on our announced program," Hawrami added, underlining the KDP's inclusive approach to post-election governance.

https://www.kurdistan24.net/en/story/80 ... l-dialogue

Beware the traitor Bafel Talabani

[Anthea]

PM Barzani, US Envoy Discuss Cabinet Formation

Resumption of Oil Exports

Kurdistan Prime Minister Masrour Barzani met on Tuesday with US Ambassador to Iraq Alina Romanowski in Erbil to discuss several key issues, including the formation of the next Kurdistan government

“They discussed the recent Kurdistan Region parliamentary elections and their results,” PM Barzani’s office said in a statement. “Ambassador Romanowski congratulated Prime Minister Barzani on the success of the elections and highlighted the orderly and peaceful conduct of the process, which saw a high voter turnout.”

Both parties emphasized the importance of initiating procedures to form a new cabinet and achieving consensus among political parties in the Kurdistan Region.

“They also discussed efforts to restart Kurdistan Region oil exports and resolve the related obstacles,” the statement added

The talks come as the Region faces financial strain following the suspension of oil exports through the Turkish port of Ceyhan in March 2023. The halt, linked to a legal dispute involving Baghdad, Erbil, and Ankara, has removed approximately 500,000 barrels per day from the global market and significantly impacted the economies of both Iraq and Kurdistan.

https://www.basnews.com/en/babat/865030

[Anthea]

Elections restored Kurdistan’s legitimacy

The “successful” parliamentary elections restored the Kurdistan Region’s legitimacy in Baghdad and internationally despite being held two years overdue, Prime Minister Masrour Barzani said on Tuesday, as the Region awaits official results of the vote

“It was an important election for the Kurdistan Region for the restoration of legitimacy to all government institutions in the Kurdistan Region,” Barzani said during the Middle East Research Institute (MERI) Forum in Erbil.

He praised the positive voter turnout of 72 percent, labeling it a “clear sign” that the Region’s citizens believe in democracy.

The Kurdistan Region held its long-overdue elections on October 20. The preliminary results were a landslide victory for the Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP), which garnered nearly twice as many votes as the runner-up Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (PUK).

On Monday, Iraq’s electoral commission said it will “most likely” announce the final results for the vote on Wednesday, ten days after the vote was held.

“Now, we are waiting for the official results of the election … and I hope all sides accept them,” Barzani said.

“Reality is different from expectations. Many [political] fronts had different results before the vote and now they changed their perspectives after the [preliminary] results,” he explained, calling on all parties to accept the results.

Many parties criticized the vote as fraudulent and rigged. The Kurdistan Justice Group (Komal), Kurdistan Islamic Union (KIU), People’s Front (Baray Gal), and the National Stance Movement (Halwest) said they would release evidence of wrongdoing at a later date.

On Saturday, Komal announced that it will withdraw and not join the parliament. They are projected to have won three seats.

As a deputy leader of the KDP, Barzani praised his party, affirming it “will be truthful with its messages of development, peace, coexistence, stability, and resilience.”

During his speech, the premier praised the progress made by the ninth cabinet of the Kurdistan Region, such as an ongoing digitalization initiative, the provision of job opportunities, and combating corruption.

We have still not reached the final stage

While speaking of the cabinet’s achievements, Barzani said that only the “foundation” has been laid and that the final product will bear fruit in the coming years, stressing that the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) is committed to providing “equal services to all citizens.”

“If we want to develop together as a nation, we must assist the private sector so it develops. When this happens, job opportunities will automatically increase and the youth will be more satisfied,” he said, praising the Region’s security and stability as a key factor for attracting international investment.

Peshmerga unification

The prime minister also touched on ongoing unification efforts for the Kurdish Peshmerga forces.

“I will say very honestly, the Peshmerga is a source of pride for all of Kurdistan. Every person who has done Peshmerga duty … is a source of pride,” he stated.

Although the Peshmerga forces are under the authority of the Peshmerga ministry, the force’s two largest units are divided among the KDP and PUK.

Unit 70 forces are affiliated with the PUK and Unit 80 forces are controlled by the KDP, making up the majority of the Peshmerga forces, amounting to over 100,000 troops.

“I have respect for Units 70 and 80. It is true that they had political affiliation, but they also fought as Peshmerga and gave many martyrs and sacrifices,” Barzani said. “For the Peshmerga ministry to supervise all Peshmerga affairs, there is a serious effort ongoing.”

"All political fronts have agreed on this program, that the Peshmerga Units 70 and 80 will gradually become smaller in size until they all fall under the umbrella of the ministry," he continued.

Over the past few years, the KRG has put the unification of the Peshmerga forces on its agenda, and while reasonable steps have been taken towards unification and a number of brigades controlled by the PUK and the KDP have been added to the ministry, many remain to do so.

“The Peshmerga ministry must be the only entity responsible for Peshmerga,” Barzani affirmed.

Erbil-Baghdad ties

Describing relations between Erbil and the Iraqi federal government in Baghdad as in a “good phase,” Barzani said that many outstanding issues have been resolved and the KRG will continue efforts to address the issues further.

Baghdad and Erbil have been at loggerheads on several issues, including the Kurdistan Region’s share in the federal budget, the salaries of civil servants, and the export of Kurdish oil through the Iraq-Turkey pipeline.

Erbil has repeatedly accused Baghdad of not making regular payments of its share of federal funds. Last year, Iraq passed a three-year budget in which the Kurdistan Region's share is 12.6 percent.

Baghdad has claimed it has fully implemented its financial obligations to the KRG, including through loans to assist the Region in paying the salaries of its civil servants. Erbil’s share was increased to 14 percent for 2024.

“I hope that the leadership in Baghdad views all Iraqi citizens the same,” Barzani said, adding that if Kurdish citizens begin believing that they are the same as any Iraqi citizen, it will increase their confidence.

He also commended the “largest number” of KRG delegations that have visited Baghdad in recent years to resolve issues such as salary disputes.

The MERI forum, themed “Towards Good Governance & Prosperity,” brought together global and regional diplomats, policymakers, and intellectuals to discuss Iraq and Middle Eastern challenges.

On the first day, panelists explored Iraq’s regional partnerships, international engagement, and shifts in its relationship with the United States, with discussions highlighting Iraq's evolving focus on governance, security, and economic diversification.

This year’s agenda includes in-depth discussions on evolving global and regional power dynamics, US policies in the Middle East, peace efforts in the Levant, Iraq’s regional role, addressing Iraq’s internal fragility, and exploring international models for financial reform.

Other key topics include Iraq’s political economy, institutionalizing center-periphery relations, and promoting ethno-religious coexistence.

https://www.rudaw.net/english/kurdistan/291020242

[Anthea]

PM Barzani, German Delegation

Discuss Peshmerga Reforms

Kurdistan Prime Minister Masrour Barzani met with a German delegation led by Siemtje Möller, a member of the German parliament and Parliamentary State Secretary at the Federal Ministry of Defence

The meeting covered the development of bilateral relations, progress in the Ministry of Peshmerga’s reform process, and the security and military situation in Iraq and the wider region, according to an official statement from the prime minister’s office.

Prime Minister Barzani thanked Germany for its support and assistance to the Peshmerga forces, expressing the Kurdistan Region’s appreciation for the German government and parliament’s decision to extend their mission in the Kurdistan Region.

Both sides emphasized the importance of forming a new cabinet of the Kurdistan Regional Government as soon as possible.

The discussion also touched on recent developments in the Middle East and the importance of maintaining security and stability in the region.

https://www.basnews.com/en/babat/865077

[Anthea]

IHEC finalizes Kurdistan election results

Iraq’s electoral commission on Wednesday announced the final results of the Kurdistan Region’s parliament elections in Erbil, with vote counts barely changing from the preliminary results

Iraq’s Independent High Electoral Commission (IHEC) announced the results in a press conference, with the ruling Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP) coming out on top securing 39 seats with over 800,000 votes across all provinces, The Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (PUK) won 23 seats and the New Generation Movement 15 seats.

The KDP won 812,794 votes in the polls, nearly double its rival

The PUK, with 409,548 votes

The New Generation Movement won 15 seats

The Kurdistan Islamic Union (KIU) won 7 seats

The Kurdistan Justice Group (Komal) won 3 seats

The National Stance Movement (Halwest) won 4 seats

Lahur Talabany’s People’s Front (Baray Gal) won 2 seats

The Change Movement (Gorran) won 1 seat

Komal, the KIU, Baray Gal, and Halwest denounced the election results, alleging fraud and manipulation, and questioned the reliability of the voting machines. The parties pledged to release evidence of alleged misconduct in due course. This should include voter fraud, intimidation and threats of job loses, and given Lahur Talabany's popularity and the fact that Bafel Talabani is a known TRAITOR, I as a rep of RBK totally agree

Judge Omar Ahmed, the head of IHEC during the press conference, said that experts and party representatives had tested selected voting devices at random, adding that the claims “are all baseless talks.”

“This has been the best election since the year 1992,” he asserted.

On Saturday, Komal announced that it will not join the parliament. The Komal leader said that the alleged rigging appears to have been committed from outside the Kurdistan Region, but did not put the blame on any party.

IHEC said the vote counts are not conclusive and a period for appealing the final tally will start the next day.

“All candidates and political parties can appeal these results in the period of three days, this legal period starts tomorrow,” Judge Ahmed said, adding that all their offices in the four provinces will be open to receive complaints.

The Kurdistan Region parliamentary elections on October 20 was a particularly different vote with the legislature downsized to 100 seats from 111 after a landmark Iraqi court ruling that stripped the 11 seats reserved for ethnic and religious minorities, later reinstated a quota of five seats within the 100.

The Assyrian, Chaldean, and Syriac Christian communities, along with the Turkmens, were allocated one seat each in Erbil and Sulaimani provinces, while Christians also received a seat in Duhok.

Ramy Noori Syawish, the incumbent district mayor of Ankawa, a Christian-majority area near Erbil city, won the race for the Christian quota seat in Erbil.

In Erbil’s Turkmen quota, former deputy Kurdistan parliament speaker Muna Kahveci secured the seat.

Babylon’s candidate Dana Amanj Najeeb claimed the Christian seat in Sulaimani while Najdat Mohammed won the province’s Turkmen seat.

The Christian seat in Duhok province was won by James Hassado.

The polls saw a voter turnout of 72 percent, with over two million people across the Region casting their votes, according to IHEC.

https://www.rudaw.net/english/kurdistan/30102024

I do NOT trust the IHEC's investigations or the Iraqi government's support for the results

We all know how Bafel Talabani turned TRAITOR against Kurdistan 7 years ago, remember in the referendum well over 90% voted for Independence

A few days following that vote Bafel Talabani turned TRAITOR against the entire population of Kurdistan by giving away a large portion of Kurdistan to Iraqi

Bafel Talabani also turned TRAITOR against Lahur Talabany and other legally elected members of the PUK by instigating an ILLEGAL COUP in which he removed said legally elected members from the PUK governing body

For both these crimes Bafel should be in prison

[Anthea]

President Barzani calls on Kurdish parties

to move past election issues

Political parties in the Kurdistan Region must move past wrangling over election results and towards greater challenges, such as restoring governance and legitimacy in the Region’s institutions, President Nechirvan Barzani said on Wednesday

“The election is now over; we have carried it out, and we cannot continue to remain in the election environment and stand against each other. What awaits us is far bigger than what has passed,” Barzani said during the final panel of the MERI Forum 2024 in Erbil.

The Kurdistan Region’s president was calling on political parties to move past “the environment of elections” to form the next Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG), warning that otherwise “we will have losses because the region is going through big changes.”

The Kurdistan Region held its long-overdue elections on October 20. The preliminary results were a landslide victory for the Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP), which garnered nearly twice as many votes as the runner-up Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (PUK).

The final results, released on Wednesday, showed that the KDP won 39 seats, the PUK 23 seats and the New Generation Movement rose to become the third-largest party in the Region with 15 seats.

"The subject of elections was an important subject for the Kurdistan Region," President Nechirvan Barzani said. "The delay of elections in the Kurdistan Region had a very bad effect."

Acknowledging that “several issues” occurred during the vote, President Barzani stressed that every democratic process comes with its issues but that the Kurdistan Region is “developing.”

“Imagine two large political parties in Erbil, in the same hour, campaigning for their respective parties,” Barzani recalled, as an example of the election’s success, calling it “among the most transparent elections done in the Kurdistan Region” since its inaugural vote in 1991.

Barzani said he is ready to call for government formation, adding, "I will make a serious effort as Kurdistan Region President to form the government as soon as possible."

The next government can only be formed through a coalition due to no party securing a majority. “It is important for the government to be formed as soon as possible, and the Kurdistan Region’s people await the government,” Barzani said.

Barzani placed emphasis on not allowing a “two administration” possibility to take place, referring to separate zones controlled by the rival KDP and PUK, stating, “We have left this stage behind, the stage of two administrations. We will not be two administrations but zero.”

Several parties criticized the vote as fraudulent and rigged. The Kurdistan Justice Group (Komal), Kurdistan Islamic Union (KIU), People’s Front (Baray Gal), and the National Stance Movement (Halwest) said they would release evidence of wrongdoing at a later date.

On Saturday, Komal announced that it would withdraw and not join the parliament. They won three seats.

Judge Omar Ahmed, the head of Iraq’s Independent High Electoral Commission (IHEC), during a Wednesday press conference, said that experts and party representatives had tested selected voting devices at random, adding that the claims “are all baseless talks.”

“This has been the best election since the year 1992,” he asserted.

IHEC said the vote counts are not conclusive, and a period for appealing the final tally will start the next day.

The polls saw a voter turnout of 72 percent, with over two million people across the Region casting their votes, according to IHEC.

Issues with Baghdad

President Barzani stressed that a “proper model” must be found to resolve outstanding issues with the federal government in Baghdad but that the resolution of such issues requires issues within the Kurdistan Region to be resolved beforehand.

"Let us begin to find a proper model to resolve issues with Baghdad together. But how do you resolve these issues? You must first discuss these issues inside your own house," Barzani said.
He criticized Baghdad’s treatment of the Kurdistan Region, saying the treatment was “very, very centralized” and was not based on a federal model.

"I told my brothers [in Baghdad] this - you do not care about the Kurdistan Region," President Barzani stated. "Your treatment is not only not federal, but is more central than central."

"Since 2003 until now, our talks [with Baghdad] have all been about the constitution, the constitution, but honestly, we do not see [a change]," Barzani lamented.

But the elections, Barzani said, have "set a great precedent, a new precedent for resolving issues with Baghdad.”

Baghdad and Erbil have been at loggerheads on several issues, including the Kurdistan Region’s share in the federal budget, the salaries of civil servants, and the export of Kurdish oil through the Iraq-Turkey pipeline.

Erbil has repeatedly accused Baghdad of not making regular payments of its share of federal funds. Last year, Iraq passed a three-year budget in which the Kurdistan Region's share is 12.6 percent. Baghdad has claimed it has fully implemented its financial obligations to the KRG, including through loans to assist the Region in paying the salaries of its civil servants. Erbil’s share was increased to 14 percent for 2024.

Barzani stressed that issues with Baghdad could be resolved “in the framework of Iraq,” adding that Erbil desires to resolve the issues, and the issues could be resolved if Baghdad treated the problems with a higher degree of seriousness.

"If Iraqi authorities since day one recognized the Kurdish matter as a serious one, none of these issues would have happened," said Barzani.

Calling for finding a model that would work for the Kurdistan Region and Iraq, Barzani said, "I am not putting all the blame on Baghdad or on the [Kurdistan] Region, but I believe that the future of this country is in finding a model so both of us can work together."

President Barzani said that he had a tripartite meeting with Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia' al-Sudani and the head of Iraq's Supreme Judicial Council, Faiq Zidan, on the issue of salaries of the Kurdistan Region's civil servants.

Regional tensions

Barzani stressed that Iraq and the Kurdistan Region must stay “far from the fire that now exists in the region,” referring to Israel’s war in the Gaza Strip and its escalating tensions with Lebanon.

“Our efforts should all go into Iraq, not falling into this conflict,” he said. “All political fronts in Iraq must help the prime minister, for it is unacceptable for Iraq to involve itself in this war.”

He reiterated that Iraq has “no interest” in involving itself in the conflict.

Israel has launched an all-out war against the Palestinian Hamas movement in retaliation to the group carrying out an uprising against Israel oppression and theft of Palestinian land. The deadly war has spilled over to neighboring Lebanon, where its Hezbollah movement has fired missiles and used explosive-laden drones to attack Israeli targets.

Iraq is at the “forefront” of regional countries defending against Israeli aggressions, an advisor to the prime minister said in October, and Baghdad has sent several rounds of aid to the Gaza Strip. Pro-Iran Iraqi militia groups have launched numerous rocket and drone attacks against Israel.

Last year, President Barzani said that Iraq must “tread carefully” as involvement in the Israel-Gaza war would only increase the sufferings of the country, calling instead for a ceasefire and a two-state solution. (simple solution: Israel must leave Palestinian land)

Kurdish-Turkish talks

Touching on talks of a new peace deal between Turkey and the Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK), Barzani said, “It would be our pleasure to see this process have a result.” (simple solution: Turkey must leave Kurdish land)

"I believe the solution of these issues will not only help Turkey but the region," Barzani added.

Reports of a renewed drive for peace began earlier this month with Nationalist Movement Party (MHP) leader Devlet Bahceli, who shook hands with members of the DEM Party in the legislature. Bahceli also proposed inviting jailed PKK leader Abdullah Ocalan to address the Turkish parliament and declare the dissolution of his armed group.

In a further step, the government decided to allow Ocalan to meet his family, ending more than four years of isolation. After the meeting, Ocalan's nephew and DEM Party lawmaker Omer Ocalan shared on X on Thursday morning a message from his uncle that he can transition the violence into a political process.

A short-lived peace process in 2013 granted Kurds some rights, but the talks collapsed in 2015, and the conflict spread into the Kurdistan Region and Western Kurdistan).

Hopes for peace took a blow last week when a Turkish aerospace facility in Ankara’s Kahramankazan district was attacked, leaving five people dead and 22 others injured. Two attackers were “neutralized,” and Ankara blamed the PKK. Turkey uses the term “neutralize” to describe adversaries who have been captured, wounded, or killed.

Two days after the attack, the PKK claimed responsibility for the attack, stating the assault “was carried out by an independent team of the Immortal Battalion.”

"The PKK is a big problem, not just for Turkey but for us too. The PKK does not consider or respect the Region's institutions," stated President Barzani.

"What happened in Ankara, this terrorist act, was for nothing but for ruining these efforts and talks ... this act had great consequences," he lamented. “The PKK should let go of its acts now.” (The PKK should be the Army of Northern Kurdistan as the Peshmerga are the Army of South Kurdistan)

The MERI forum, themed “Towards Good Governance & Prosperity,” brought together global and regional diplomats, policymakers, and intellectuals to discuss Iraq and Middle Eastern challenges.

This year’s agenda includes in-depth discussions on evolving global and regional power dynamics, US policies in the Middle East, peace efforts in the Levant, Iraq’s regional role, addressing Iraq’s internal fragility, and exploring international models for financial reform. Other key topics include Iraq’s political economy, institutionalizing center-periphery relations, and promoting ethno-religious coexistence.

https://www.rudaw.net/english/kurdistan/301020244

[Anthea]

Barzani Emphasizes Water Security

Kurdish leader Masoud Barzani, president of the Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP), called for strengthened water security and a shift towards agricultural and economic self-reliance in a speech at the opening of the Mesopotamia Medical Conference in Erbil on Thursday

Addressing an audience of doctors and scientists, Barzani emphasized the critical need for Kurdistan to prepare for future resource challenges, especially concerning water—a resource he warned will grow increasingly scarce.

“I don’t know how far or near in the future, but the water problem will be the main challenge,” Barzani said, citing the Quranic verse “We made from water every living thing.” He commended the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) for recent efforts to build dams and encouraged a focus on water infrastructure as a top priority for the future.

Highlighting the urgency of diversifying Kurdistan’s economy beyond oil, the prominent leader advocated for bolstered support for the Region’s agriculture and tourism sectors, which he described as essential for sustainable economic resilience. “Yes, oil is important, but oil will run out today or tomorrow; agriculture and tourism will not,” he said.

In addition to economic matters, Barzani urged unity within Kurdistan’s political landscape following the recent peaceful elections, calling for dialogue among all parties under the principle of “one region, one parliament, one government, and one Peshmerga force.”

The Kurdish leader concluded by commending the medical professionals for their dedication, noting their contributions to Kurdish society and beyond. “Your duty is a sacred duty…your hands are sacred, and thank you,” he said.

The Mesopotamia Medical Conference, attended by medical experts and policymakers, is expected to discuss key developments and challenges in the health sector across the Kurdistan Region.

https://www.basnews.com/en/babat/865160

[Anthea]

Barzani, US Envoy Discuss Post-Election

Political Developments

Kurdish leader Masoud Barzani, president of the Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP), received on Monday US Ambassador to Iraq Alina Romanowski to discuss the political landscape following the Kurdistan Region’s recent parliamentary elections

In the meeting, also attended by US Consul General in Erbil Steven Bitner, Romanowski congratulated Barzani on success of the parliamentary elections in the Kurdistan Region. She praised the peaceful and democratic conduct of the elections, noting that they showcased a positive image of Kurdistan.

Barzani expressed gratitude to the international community and the Iraqi High Independent Electoral Commission for their contributions to the election’s success, acknowledging some technical challenges but emphasizing the overall success.

Discussions included steps toward forming the new Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) cabinet and ongoing negotiations among political parties. The Kurdish leader confirmed that the KDP has established a team to engage in discussions about the cabinet formation and set priorities for the new government.

The leaders also exchanged views on the broader political and security situation in Iraq and the Middle East. They discussed developments in the Iraqi political process, including the election of a new speaker of the Iraqi parliament.

https://www.basnews.com/en/babat/865552

[Anthea]

KDP Engages in Discussions with Parties

to Form New Government

A delegation from the Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP) has initiated talks with political parties in the Kurdistan Region to expedite the formation of a new government

Since last week, the KDP delegation, focused on parliamentary proceedings and forming the tenth cabinet, has met with various political entities, including the Kurdistan Islamic Union (KIU) and Kurdistan Justice Group (KJG).

The KDP aims to obtain common consent from all parties to accelerate parliamentary processes and cabinet formation. While the KIU has declared its intent to remain in opposition, the KJG has refrained from entering the Kurdistan Parliament. These decisions add a layer of complexity to the KDP’s efforts to secure cooperation and create a stable administration for the Region.

Following the recent parliamentary elections in October, KDP’s leadership in government formation is now centered on achieving consensus to navigate the challenges posed by opposition stances and ensure effective governance in the new term.

https://www.basnews.com/en/babat/865973

[Anthea]

Iraqi PM to discuss four key issues

with Kurdistan Region leaders

This marks Iraqi PM al-Sudani's fourth visit to the Kurdistan Region since assuming his position as Iraq's Prime Minister

ERBIL (Kurdistan24) - Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani arrived at Erbil International Airport at 09:00 AM on Wednesday, where Kurdistan Region Prime Minister Masrour Barzani welcomed him.

According to Kurdistan24 correspondent Nawras Abdullah, the visit will focus on four main topics:

1. Formation of the new Kurdistan Regional Government cabinet

2. Salaries and budget issues

3. The upcoming national census

4. Oil export resumption

According to the visit's agenda, following his meeting with PM Masrour Barzani, Sudani will meet with:

- President Masoud Barzani in Pirmam

- Kurdistan Region President Nechirvan Barzani

- Representatives from Kurdistan Justice Group, People's Front, and other components in Erbil

- The Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (PUK), New Generation Movement, and Kurdistan Islamic Union in Sulaimani

This marks Iraqi PM al-Sudani's fourth visit to the Kurdistan Region since assuming his position as Iraq's Prime Minister.

The high-level meetings come at a crucial time as the Kurdistan Region prepares to form its new government following recent parliamentary elections. Outstanding issues between Erbil and Baghdad, particularly regarding oil exports and budget allocations, have been ongoing challenges in federal-regional relations.

The upcoming national census, scheduled for Nov. 20-21, adds another significant dimension to the discussions, as it will be the first comprehensive population count in Iraq since 1987.

https://www.kurdistan24.net/en/story/81 ... on-leaders

[Anthea]

US-Iraq Talks:

Supporting the Kurdistan Region emerged as a focal point in recent meetings between Iraqi delegation and top US officials in Washington, according to a senior Kurdish official

During an interview with BasNews, Safeen Dizayi, the head of the Kurdistan Regional Government's (KRG) Department of Foreign Relations, highlighted the main topics discussed during the meetings. Dizayi also emphasized the Kurdistan Region's importance in these discussions and the significant outcome of Prime Minister Masrour Barzani's recent visit to Washington.

[Below is the interview which was translated from Kurdish and edited for clarity and length]

BasNews: Can you elaborate on the delegation's visit and discussions in the United States?

Dizayi: Certainly, we engaged in a series of meetings with ministers, parliament members, and advisors, covering various aspects including military, economic, and energy. My participation focused on the crucial meeting with President Biden, where we discussed Iraq's future relations with the United States. This encompassed not only military cooperation but also economic, energy, civil society, democratic, academic, scientific, and environmental dimensions. Over the past two days, we delved into these topics to forge a shared understanding and collaborative framework, setting a roadmap for bilateral relations.

BasNews: What stood out to you in the meeting between President Biden and Sudani?

Dizayi: A notable emphasis was placed on Iraq's imperative to diversify its economy by leveraging its energy resources, particularly natural gas, to foster self-reliance and political stability while ensuring the presence of Coalition forces. Additionally, there was acknowledgment of US support for Peshmerga forces and the resolution of Erbil-Baghdad disputes.

BasNews: Did the meeting between President Biden and Sudani address support for the Kurdistan Region?

Dizayi: Yes, support for the Kurdistan Region was indeed on the agenda. The discussions also endorsed the re-export of Kurdistan Regional Government's oil, benefiting both the region and Iraq, along with American companies involved.

BasNews: Were there any commitments from the Iraqi delegation regarding Kurdistan's salary and oil issues during their discussions with President Biden?

Dizayi: While the issue of salaries remains internal, it holds significance, and the United States advocates for the resolution of Erbil-Baghdad disputes, including the matter of Kurdistan's oil exports, which necessitates concerted efforts.

BasNews: How did the points raised during Kurdistan Region PM Masrour Barzani's visit to Washington influence US expectations from Sudani regarding the Kurdistan Region?

Dizayi: Prime Minister Barzani provided comprehensive insights and details during his visit, augmenting the information available to the United States through its consulates and embassies. This firsthand account empowered discussions with the federal government, enhancing the Kurdistan Region's standing in addressing pertinent issues.

BasNews: Considering US support for the Kurdistan Region in resolving its disputes with Baghdad, as evident in the Biden-Sudani meeting, how pivotal is the Kurdistan Region's role in fostering peace in the Middle East?

Dizayi: The Kurdistan Region's strategic significance is underscored by its robust economic, political, social, and democratic foundations, established since 1991. Its stability and security align with US interests in the region. The recent congressional advocacy further underscores the desire to support the region, emphasizing the need for internal problem-solving complemented by external assistance.

BasNews: Was your inclusion in the Iraqi delegation at the behest of Baghdad or Erbil?

Dizayi: Our participation stemmed from Sudani's invitation, echoing a similar engagement at the United Nations General Assembly last September. This demonstrates efforts towards bolstering relations and addressing shared challenges.

https://www.basnews.com/en/babat/845797

[Anthea]

Renewable Energy Goals

A panel discussion on the future of energy in Iraq and Kurdistan, held on Friday during the fifth day of the 29th Climate Change Conference (COP29), showcased the Kurdistan Regional Government’s (KRG) renewable energy initiatives

Rawa Mohammed Penjweni, Director of Renewable Energy at the KRG’s Ministry of Electricity, outlined the government’s ambitious plans to transition from traditional energy sources to renewable alternatives. Penjweni emphasized the Region’s focus on solar energy, describing it as “the best alternative source given the Region’s climate.”

During the panel, Penjweni announced that three contracts have been signed for solar energy projects capable of generating 350 megawatts of electricity. He detailed the Ministry’s short-term goal to add 1,000 megawatts from renewable sources and long-term plans to expand to 3,000 megawatts through a mix of solar, hydroelectric, and wind energy.

Penjweni also announced plans to integrate renewable energy into public transportation systems, stressing that the transition “requires a well-structured, step-by-step plan.”

The KRG’s participation in COP29 underscores its commitment to addressing climate change and reducing dependency on fossil fuels. The Region’s geography and climate, with abundant sunshine year-round, make it particularly suitable for solar energy development.

These initiatives are seen as vital steps toward lowering the Region’s carbon footprint, enhancing energy security, and ensuring a sustainable future for generations to come.

https://www.basnews.com/en/babat/866551

[Anthea]

Sharp Decline in Accidents

The Erbil Traffic Directorate announced on Saturday a notable decrease in traffic accidents this year compared to previous years, attributing the improvement to increased public awareness and the implementation of strategic safety measures

The Directorate emphasized that strict adherence to traffic laws is vital to maintaining this positive trend, urging drivers to follow safety guidelines for their protection and the well-being of others.

Key causes of accidents were identified, including speeding, drunk driving, and distracted driving, particularly the use of mobile phones and social media. The Directorate highlighted the rising prevalence of such risky behaviors among young drivers, noting similarities with challenges faced in other countries like China.

Under the leadership of the Kurdistan Regional Government’s (KRG) ninth cabinet, traffic safety and infrastructure improvements have been prioritized. The Ministry of Interior has intensified efforts to prevent road casualties, focusing on a mix of preventive and enforcement strategies.

The Directorate detailed its initiatives, such as continuous street monitoring by officers, enhanced road surveillance through cameras, and strict penalties for violations. These measures have played a key role in achieving the year’s accident reduction milestone.

Reiterating the importance of compliance with traffic laws, the Directorate called on drivers to embrace collective responsibility to sustain these safety improvements.

https://www.basnews.com/en/babat/866666