Kurdish parties focus on unity, agree to three main principles: PM Barzani

ERBIL, Kurdistan Region (Kurdistan 24) – The Kurdistan Regional Government's (KRG) top official has started a series of meetings with political parties in the Kurdistan Region in an effort to strengthen unity ahead of political talks with Baghdad.

On Tuesday, Prime Minister Nechirvan Barzani and Deputy Prime Minister Qubad Talabani alongside cabinet members held a series of meetings with the main political parties to discuss Kurdish unity and prospects of talks with the Iraqi government.

According to a statement on the KRG's website, the Kurdish delegation met separately with the leaders of Gorran Movement, the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (PUK) and the Socialist Democratic Party of Kurdistan where all sides emphasized internal unity and the need for serious dialogue with Baghdad to resolve all issues on the basis of the Iraqi Constitution.

Following the meeting, Barzani held a press conference and explained that they were looking to assess the current situation and that they would continue to engage with all parties until they have a plan to present the people of Kurdistan Region.

Asked about the possibility of holding talks with the Iraqi government, Barzani said a visit to Baghdad has not been yet scheduled.

“We will visit Baghdad as a government delegation where all political parties in the cabinet shall participate,” Barzani told the press.

All political parties that were consulted have agreed on three main principles, added Barzani, saying they were all opposed to the formation of two administrations in the Kurdistan Region, supportive of talks with Baghdad, and against any unilateral talks with Baghdad.

Editing by Nadia Riva