Politics

Al-Sudani in Erbil: Iraq Has Withstood Crises, Now Focused on Stability and Economic Growth

Both leaders emphasized resolving Baghdad-Erbil disputes through the Iraqi Constitution, while ensuring financial entitlements and safeguarding citizens' legitimate rights.

Iraq Prime Minister Masrour Barzani PM Mohammed Shia' al-Sudani Erbil-Baghdad relations

By Dler Mohammed

ERBIL (Kurdistan24) — Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia’ Al-Sudani met with Kurdistan Region Prime Minister Masrour Barzani on Saturday in Erbil, where the two leaders discussed key national files, regional developments, and the government’s position on unfolding crises in the Middle East.

According to a statement released by the media office of the Iraqi Prime Minister, the meeting focused on strengthening cooperation between Baghdad and Erbil in light of current regional tensions. Both sides reaffirmed the importance of partnership and coordination to confront national and regional challenges through a balanced policy rooted in mutual interests and cooperation with neighboring and friendly countries.

Prime Minister Al-Sudani highlighted that his government has successfully navigated both internal and external crises, taking full responsibility despite regional volatility. He reiterated the government’s ongoing efforts to strengthen Iraq’s national economy and maintain security and stability across all provinces.

The discussion also emphasized the need to resolve outstanding issues between the federal government and the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) based on the constitution and legal frameworks, ensuring justice and equitable benefits for all Iraqi citizens.

Kurdistan Region Statement: Focus on Coordination, Dialogue, and Shared Interests

According to a statement by the KRG, the two senior officials held a meeting in Erbil to deliberate on the latest developments in Iraq and the broader region. A core focus of the discussions was the importance of enhancing coordination to effectively address shared challenges.

Both sides underlined the necessity of resolving disputes between the Kurdistan Region and the federal government in Baghdad per the Iraqi Constitution. They also stressed the importance of guaranteeing financial entitlements and protecting the legitimate rights of all citizens.

Concerning the overall regional context, the leaders agreed on the need to preserve Iraq’s security and stability. They also emphasized that all disputes should be addressed peacefully and through constructive dialogue, avoiding escalation and fostering national unity.

"There are challenges on the horizon, but I believe by working together, abiding by the constitution, and through honest dialogue, we can achieve lasting prosperity for our peoples," said PM Barzani in a post on X, following the meeting. 

Bridging Divides: The Path to Rebuilding Trust Between Baghdad and Erbil

This high-level meeting comes at a time when Iraq and the wider Middle East are grappling with complex geopolitical tensions, economic instability, and security threats. The relationship between the Iraqi federal government and the Kurdistan Region has long been marked by disputes over oil revenues, budget allocations, and territorial governance.

Prime Minister Al-Sudani, since taking office in 2022, has consistently emphasized national unity, economic reform, and balanced foreign policy. On the other hand, the KRG under Masrour Barzani has sought greater fiscal autonomy, fair budget distribution, and clarity in Baghdad-Erbil relations, especially regarding constitutional rights and duties.

The Erbil meeting signals a possible thaw in federal-regional relations and a mutual willingness to seek solutions through institutional dialogue—especially vital as Iraq aims to stabilize its post-conflict society while navigating economic diversification and regional diplomacy.

Strengthening Global Ties: Erbil-Washington Alliance Gains Renewed Momentum

As Baghdad and Erbil work toward bridging internal divides, the Kurdistan Region is also reinforcing its external alliances—most notably with the United States. On Friday, a day before Prime Minister Mohammed Shia’ Al-Sudani’s visit to Erbil, Kurdistan Region Prime Minister Masrour Barzani held a pivotal phone call with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio. The two leaders reaffirmed their shared commitment to strategic cooperation, with a particular focus on reviving suspended oil exports and addressing regional instability.

According to an official readout, Barzani and Rubio emphasized the urgency of restarting oil flows through the Turkish port of Ceyhan, a move seen as vital to both economic recovery and energy market stability. Their discussion also touched on broader regional developments, with both leaders recognizing the Kurdistan Region’s essential role in promoting security, religious freedom, and democratic values in the Middle East.

“The Kurdistan Region plays a vital role in ensuring regional stability and security,” Secretary Rubio stated, commending Erbil’s historic support in counterterrorism and humanitarian efforts during the war against ISIS.

Prime Minister Barzani echoed the sentiment, expressing gratitude for Washington’s continued military, diplomatic, and development assistance, while pledging to deepen the enduring alliance. Notably, this conversation reaffirmed that the U.S.-KRG relationship remains robust despite leadership transitions in Washington.

The call concluded with both sides agreeing to maintain open strategic coordination on key issues, particularly in defense, energy, and regional diplomacy. As Iraq continues navigating domestic reforms and external challenges, the Kurdistan Region’s relationship with the United States remains a cornerstone of its international engagement and a stabilizing force within Iraq’s evolving political landscape.

 
 
 
Dler Mohammed ,
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