Barzani Calls on New President of Kurdistan to Work on Disputes with Baghdad

Kurdish charismatic leader and the former president of Kurdistan Region, Masoud Barzani, reiterated a call on political forces in Erbil and Baghdad to work together and address the prolonged disputes, namely those pertaining to the contested Kurdish areas.

Barzani made the remarks during his speech delivered at the inauguration of the new president of Kurdistan Region, Nechirvan Barzani, on Monday.

The Kurdish prominent leader welcomed the “democratic” political developments that have created a new atmosphere after last year’s elections. He urged the continuation of the political process with the formation of the new government in a joint effort between political parties in Kurdistan.

“I congratulate Nechirvan Barzani and I wish him success. I will fully support him [in his new responsibility],” he said.

Barzani reminded the joint efforts and mutual understanding, within the framework of the Constitution of Iraq, remains the best option to resolve the disputes between Erbil and Baghdad.

On the Islamic State (IS), the Kurdish leader warned that the jihadists group still exists and their terror threatens not only Kurdistan Region and Iraq, but also the region and entire world.

“Joint efforts are needed to prevent any catastrophes like those in 2014 from happening again,” Barzani pointed out.

Concerning the growing tensions in the Middle East, Barzani urged the conflicting sides to return to peaceful dialogue “as war serves no one’s interests”.