Iraq’s Federal and Regional Presidents Discuss Financial and Political Disputes

President Rasheed underscored the need to prioritize the interests of citizens, particularly ensuring the payment of salaries to employees and retirees in the Kurdistan Region, similar to those in the rest of Iraq.

Kurdistan Region President Nechirvan Barzani being received by Iraq's President Latif Rasheed, in Baghdad, Jan 13, 2025. (Photo: Kurdistan24)
Kurdistan Region President Nechirvan Barzani being received by Iraq's President Latif Rasheed, in Baghdad, Jan 13, 2025. (Photo: Kurdistan24)

Jan 13, 2025

ERBIL (Kurdistan24) – Kurdistan Region President Nechirvan Barzani discussed with Iraq’s President Latif Rasheed on Monday in Baghdad, the financial and political disagreements that strained relations between Baghdad and Erbil. 

A statement from Iraq’s presidency following the meeting revealed that President Rasheed emphasized the importance of dialogue between the two sides and resolving disagreements in line with the constitution. 

He underscored the need to prioritize the interests of citizens, particularly ensuring the payment of salaries to employees and retirees in the Kurdistan Region, similar to those in the rest of Iraq.

President Rasheed also expressed his support for fostering strong relations between the federal government in Baghdad and the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG). 

He highlighted the importance of continued exchanges of visits between the two governments to build mutual understanding and strengthen the foundations of constructive dialogue aimed at resolving disputed issues and protecting the interests of all citizens.

For his part, President Barzani reaffirmed the necessity of finding a solution to the salary issue for the region’s employees and emphasized ongoing efforts to address all outstanding concerns. He expressed his gratitude to President Rasheed for his commitment to building a productive relationship between Baghdad and Erbil, one that benefits the entire country.

The ongoing issue between Erbil and Baghdad regarding employee salaries stems from a long-standing financial dispute between the federal and regional government of Iraq. The disagreement primarily revolves around the allocation of the Kurdistan Region’s share of the national budget, which includes funding for public sector salaries. 

The federal government has withheld funds at various times. As a result, employees in the Kurdistan Region, including public sector workers and retirees, have faced delayed or reduced salary payments, causing widespread economic strain. The dispute has been a significant point of tension between Baghdad and Erbil, requiring ongoing negotiations to find a sustainable solution.

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