Nechirvan Barzani: Iraq Still Far from True Federalism
In his address, the Kurdistan Region President emphasized that although Iraq holds a vital role in the region, the governance model agreed upon in the 2005 constitution has yet to be fully implemented.
ERBIL (Kurdistan24) – Kurdistan Region President Nechirvan Barzani declared that Iraq remains far from achieving genuine federalism as outlined in its constitution, during his remarks at the Tehran Dialogue Forum on Sunday. The forum, hosted by Iran’s Foreign Ministry and attended by Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian and other senior regional figures, focused on regional cooperation and shared challenges.
In his address, the Kurdistan Region President emphasized that although Iraq holds a vital role in the region, the governance model agreed upon in the 2005 constitution has yet to be fully implemented.
“We live in a geography called Iraq. We must establish a governance model that is satisfactory to everyone,” Barzani said. “This model is outlined in the Iraqi constitution, which was approved by 80 percent of the people. But Baghdad’s treatment of the Kurdistan Region does not align with the principles of federalism.”
He stressed that meaningful dialogue between Erbil and Baghdad is necessary to resolve longstanding disputes, urging full adherence to the constitution to ensure political stability and equitable power-sharing.
Barzani also touched on regional relations, particularly the Kurdistan Region’s close ties with Iran. He noted that around 60 percent of trade between Iran and Iraq passes through the Kurdistan Region, and that economic, cultural, and educational cooperation continues to deepen.
The President expressed appreciation for Iran’s historical support and commended President Pezeshkian for addressing the audience in Kurdish during his recent visit to Erbil — a gesture Barzani said surprised and resonated with many Kurds.
He further highlighted the strengthening of trilateral security cooperation between Baghdad, Erbil, and Tehran, and confirmed holding several high-level meetings in Tehran to bolster coordination.
On the broader Kurdish issues in the region, Barzani reiterated that violence is not the answer.
“The Kurdish issue cannot be resolved through war and bloodshed,” he said. “In Iraqi Kurdistan, our role is to cooperate and avoid interfering in the internal affairs of Turkey or any other country.”
Regarding the Kurdish peace process in Turkey, Barzani acknowledged recent efforts to revive talks, noting the involvement of the Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK), the pro-Kurdish DEM Party, and jailed Kurdish leader Abdullah Ocalan as key actors.
The Tehran Dialogue Forum provided a platform for Barzani to reaffirm the Kurdistan Region's commitment to peaceful coexistence, dialogue-based conflict resolution, and regional partnership, while delivering a frank message about Iraq’s unfulfilled federal promises.
