Peshmerga delegation discusses security, stability in disputed areas with Iraqi Defense Minister in Baghdad

ERBIL (Kurdistan 24) – Following a meeting with Iraq’s Federal Ministry of Defense on Monday, the Kurdistan Region’s Peshmerga Ministry announced that an agreement to initiate cooperation between both sides through permanent committees had been reached.

A high delegation from the Kurdistan Regional Government’s (KRG) Ministry of Peshmerga, headed by Minister Shorish Ismael, met with Iraq’s Defense Minister Najah al-Shammari in Baghdad.

“The Peshmerga forces as part of the Iraqi defense system were deprived in previous years of their financial entitlements that were part of their rights,” a statement from the Ministry of Peshmerga read. It revealed an agreement with Iraq to send outstanding financial dues to the Peshmerga for 2019 and 2020 and beyond.

“The decision to send Peshmerga’s financial dues will strengthen credibility and consolidate relations and measures for greater preparations to confront terrorism and terrorists,” the statement added.

The statement explained that the Peshmerga Ministry has always taken the initiative to act as a force that provides peace and stability in the region. It described the mutual understanding established on Monday as a “step toward the right direction.”

In the meeting, the two sides agreed on communication and cooperation through the joint committees that have been previously established to address outstanding issues, including security in the disputed territories.

The statement also welcomed a visit from Iraq’s defense ministry to Erbil soon.  

Security in the disputed territories has been one of the outstanding issues between Erbil and Baghdad. In recent months, the so-called Islamic State has taken advantage of the lack of coordination between Peshmerga and Iraqi Security Forces to conduct insurgency attacks, injuring and killing civilians in those areas.   

Editing by Karzan Sulaivany