President Barzani: Nothing More, Nothing Less Than the Constitution for Kurdistan
President Barzani affirmed the KRI's constitutional rights to Germany's outgoing envoy, who reiterated support for the Region's entity and praised its stability. President Barzani also noted progress in forming a new KRG cabinet.
ERBIL (Kurdistan24) — In a farewell meeting with Germany's outgoing ambassador to Iraq, President Masoud Barzani issued a firm declaration on the Kurdistan Region's constitutional rights, stating that while nothing more than the constitution is being asked, nothing less will be accepted, as he also expressed fresh optimism about the imminent formation of a new regional government. The meeting underscored the strong ties between Kurdistan and Germany, with the ambassador reiterating robust European support for the Region's constitutional entity.
The discussion took place in Pirmam on Monday, as President Barzani received Amb. Christiane Hohmann, the German Ambassador, for a farewell visit marking the end of her duties.
The meeting was also attended by Albrecht von Wittke, the German Consul General. During the exchange, President Barzani conveyed his gratitude for the vital role played by Germany and the European Union in supporting the constitutional entity of the Kurdistan Region.
Addressing the critical relationship between the Kurdistan Region and the federal government in Baghdad, President Barzani noted that a return to the core principles of consensus, balance, and partnership represents the best path forward. He stated plainly, "we want the constitution to be implemented." In a powerful articulation of the Region’s position, President Barzani added, "We have not asked for anything more than what is within the framework of the constitution, but we will not accept anything less than what the constitution has granted to the people and the Kurdistan Region."
On the domestic political front, President Barzani provided an update on the steps to form the new cabinet of the regional government. He indicated that following a recent meeting between the politburos of the Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP) and the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (PUK), there is now a better understanding for forming the new cabinet.
He expressed his hope that the new regional government will be established before the upcoming elections for the Iraqi Council of Representatives.
In her remarks, Ambassador Hohmann expressed her thanks and deep appreciation for the role and stature of President Barzani.
She reiterated the unwavering support of Germany and other European countries for the constitutional status of the Kurdistan Region's entity. She pointed out that the presence of a significant number of consulates in the Region serves as a clear "message that the entity of the Kurdistan Region must be protected and defended."
The German Ambassador also highlighted the notable successes the Kurdistan Region has achieved in terms of developing its economic infrastructure and ensuring peace and stability. She expressed hope that this progress could also be achieved in other parts of Iraq. Specifically, she hoped that the notable example established in the Kurdistan Region in key service sectors, especially concerning water and electricity, would be implemented in the rest of Iraq to better serve its citizens.
The broader political situation and the latest developments at the regional and Iraqi levels, along with an emphasis on further developing relations between the Kurdistan Region and Germany, were also key topics of the meeting.
