At the Tehran Dialogue Forum (TDF) in Iran, Kurdistan Region President Nechirvan Barzani blamed Baghdad for not implementing federalism in Iraq, and also expressed support for the peace process in Turkiye.

During his official visit to Iran, he also met with Iran’s President Masoud Pezeshkian in Tehran. “We discussed further strengthening bilateral relations and cooperation between the Kurdistan Region، Iraq and the Islamic Republic of Iran, based on mutual interests,” the Kurdish president posted on X.

“We also discussed the latest developments, emphasizing the critical need for peace and stability in the region,” he added.

During the forum, Barzani also criticized Baghdad for its centralist mindset.

“Iraq, by definition, has a federal system, but unfortunately, we have yet to achieve federalism in Iraq,” the Kurdistan Region President said.

“There must be a serious dialogue between Erbil and Baghdad on the issue of federalism. If they properly implement the Iraqi constitution by definition, the issues between the Kurdistan Region and Iraq will be resolved," he added. 

Read More: Baghdad’s Treatment of Kurdistan Unacceptable: President Barzani

Barzani’s comments came after he attended the Arab League Summit in Baghdad last Saturday and met with Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia’ al-Sudani.

Read More: President Barzani Offers Support For Peace Process in Turkiye

Furthermore, the Kurdish leader expressed his support for the ongoing peace process in Turkiye.

“There is no military solution to the Kurdish question,” Barzani said, adding that only negotiations can produce results.

“We are ready to help foster a peaceful resolution."

The Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK) on May 12 announced that they will disband and disarm, following a call from imprisoned PKK leader Abdullah Ocalan for the group to lay down their arms as part of a new peace process.