President Barzani, Khamis Al-Khanjar Discuss Iraq’s Political and Security Landscape
According to a statement from Barzani’s office, the two leaders discussed key issues, including developments in Iraq, and the broader region, as well as the status of Erbil-Baghdad relations.
ERBIL (Kurdistan24) – President Masoud Barzani met on Thursday with Khamis al-Khanjar, a prominent Iraqi political figure and leader of the al-Siyada Alliance, to discuss the political and security situation in Iraq and the broader region.
According to a statement from Barzani’s office, the two leaders discussed key issues, including developments in Iraq, and the broader region, as well as the status of Erbil-Baghdad relations.
Longstanding Ties and Political Cooperation
The meeting highlighted the strong and long-standing relationship between Khamis Al-Khanjar and the Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP), particularly with President Masoud Barzani and Kurdistan Region Prime Minister Masrour Barzani.
Al-Khanjar has been a key Sunni political ally of the KDP, often advocating for Sunni-Kurdish cooperation to promote stability and balance in Iraq’s political sphere.
Over the years, he has maintained close coordination with the KDP leadership, supporting shared efforts to ensure the rights of both Kurdish and Sunni Arab communities within Iraq’s federal framework.
Under President Barzani’s leadership, the KDP has played a central role in shaping Iraq’s post-2003 political landscape, fostering alliances with key figures such as al-Khanjar to counterbalance centralization efforts from Baghdad and maintain a strong regional government in Kurdistan.
Erbil-Baghdad Relations: Ongoing Challenges and Negotiations
The discussion between Barzani and Al-Khanjar also touched upon Erbil-Baghdad relations, which remain complex and often strained. Key disputes between the Kurdistan Region and the federal government include budget allocations, oil exports, and territorial disagreements in the disputed areas such as Kirkuk. While recent negotiations have aimed at easing tensions, unresolved financial and administrative issues continue to create friction between both sides.
The KRG has repeatedly called for Baghdad to honor constitutional agreements regarding Kurdish financial entitlements and regional autonomy. Meanwhile, the federal government faces pressure from various factions, including those seeking greater central control over Kurdish resources and governance.
The meeting between Barzani and Al-Khanjar underscores ongoing efforts to strengthen political cooperation and navigate Iraq’s evolving political landscape, as both Kurdish and Sunni political leaders seek to ensure greater stability and fair representation in the country’s governance.