UN ‘encouraged’ by improved relations between Kurdistan Region, Iraq

ERBIL (Kurdistan 24) – The Special Representative of the Secretary-General for the United Nations Assistance Mission in Iraq (UNAMI), Ján Kubiš, says he is encouraged to see an improved relationship between the Iraqi government and the Kurdistan Regional Government.

Speaking to Kurdistan 24 on the sidelines of an event to mark the International Day for Eliminating Violence Against Women on Sunday, Kubiš highlighted the positive developments in ties between Erbil and Baghdad.

The UN official said the Kurdistan Region “did the right thing” to participate in Iraq’s parliamentary elections on May 12, “to send representation to Baghdad,” and to work in the federal government “after a gap of several years.”

“This is very important because it means that both parties will work on the issues that are important for the whole country – for Iraq – but that are also important for the Kurdistan Region and for the Kurdish people,” Kubiš stated.

“I’m encouraged to see as I said a good amount of goodwill, and I do have hope that this goodwill will be translated to some concrete political and other measures.”

Kubiš also commented on the former Kurdistan Region President Masoud Barzani’s recent visit to Baghdad where he met with several senior Iraqi political leaders, including Prime Minister Adel Abdul-Mahdi.

The UN representative said issues between Erbil and Baghdad, particularly those related to the status of disputed areas such as Kirkuk, were “no doubt” discussed during Barzani’s visit.

Moreover, as a final government formation in Iraq nears, Kubiš called on all political forces and members of parliament in Baghdad to complete the process promptly.

“People of the country are eagerly waiting and are in need of a government that will work, that will deliver.”

(Additional reporting by Bilessa Shaweys)