Iraqi President calls for unity at MEPS 2024, emphasizes democratic progress in Kurdistan
"We must end all conflicts that arose during the election campaign. Let us work together to form a strong government that serves the people of Kurdistan and meets their expectations," Iraqi President stated.
Nov. 22, 2024
ERBIL, Kurdistan Region - Iraqi President Latif Rashid addressed the fifth Middle East Peace and Security Forum (MEPS 2024) at the American University of Kurdistan in Duhok on Friday, November 22, 2024, congratulating the Kurdistan Region on its recent parliamentary elections and successful census completion.
"I congratulate the people of Kurdistan on their sixth parliamentary elections and the completion of the census process across both Kurdistan and Iraq," President Rashid stated in his opening remarks.
Addressing the post-election period, Rashid urged swift action from successful political parties: "I call on all parties that have won parliamentary seats to engage in dialogue and understanding, and to expedite the formation of a new government."
The President emphasized the need to move past electoral disputes: "We must end all conflicts that arose during the election campaign. Let us work together to form a strong government that serves the people of Kurdistan and meets their expectations."
Highlighting the cost of political discord, Rashid noted, "In political rivalries, it is only our people who pay the price. It is clear that the people are the source of all authority."
The President also addressed broader regional challenges: "Iraq and the region are going through a critical period that requires all parties to carefully study the situation and work together to find appropriate solutions while maintaining peace and security."
Reflecting on historical lessons, Rashid added, "Regional experience has taught us that without security and stability, no progress or development can be achieved. The people of Iraq have long suffered under the Ba'athist regime, internal conflicts, and terrorism, where previous regimes adopted violence as their methodology in both domestic and foreign policy."
The MEPS 2024 forum has attracted an impressive international audience, with 124 academics from 40 different countries participating, 73% of whom are first-time attendees. The event features multiple panels and workshops focusing on current global and Middle Eastern affairs.
The MEPS forum serves as a crucial platform for regional dialogue and international cooperation. The recent Kurdistan parliamentary elections and nationwide Iraqi census mark significant milestones in the country's democratic development. The event's high participation rate from first-time international attendees underscores its growing importance as a regional forum for academic and policy discussions on Middle Eastern security and peace initiatives.