Senior Kurdish leaders on Wednesday received Qassim al-Araji, Iraq’s National Security Advisor, in Erbil, and discussed the recent security developments in Iraq.

During the meeting between President Masoud Barzani and al-Araji, both sides discussed the political situation and the latest security developments in the region.

They also exchanged views on the relations between the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) and the federal government of Iraq, and on resolving the issues and disputes between both sides.

During a meeting with KRG Prime Minister Masrour Barzani, the KRG readout stated that both sides “stressed the importance of strengthening coordination and cooperation between the KRG and the federal government to safeguard security and stability.”

Furthermore, they also “discussed the need to resolve outstanding issues between the Kurdistan Region and the federal government based on the Constitution and to ensure the Kurdistan Region’s financial rights and entitlements are upheld.”

Al-Araji also met with Kurdistan Region President Nechirvan Barzani, where, according to the Presidency’s readout, both sides emphasized the need for continued coordination and cooperation among the Iraqi army, peshmerga, and security forces. 

They also addressed recent initiatives and progress in the peace process in Turkey between the Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK) and the Turkish state.

“Both sides agreed on the importance of maintaining a policy that keeps Iraq uninvolved in regional tensions and conflicts, while working to address these challenges to ensure peace and stability in the country,” the Presidency said.