Substantial progress has been achieved in reaching common ground, particularly in discussions with the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (PUK) regarding the formation of the next government cabinet.

Statement Of the Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP) Central Committee Meeting.

Under the auspices of President Masoud Barzani, the Central Committee of the Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP) meeting today, Saturday, February 15, 2025, with the participation of committee members and branch officials. Below is the official statement from the meeting:

At the outset, the meeting observed a moment of silence in honor of the martyrs of Kurdistan, particularly the immortal Barzani and the revered Kak Idris.

The discussions then addressed several regional and international issues, as well as internal organizational matters, leading to the adoption of necessary decisions.

First Axis: Global and Regional Issues

The committee extensively analyzed the current global and regional transformations, particularly the war in Gaza, the positions of the U.S., European, and Arab governments, and the impact of the conflict on both warring sides. The broader implications of the war on the Palestinian cause and its consequences on the lives and future of Gaza’s people, as well as the Palestinian issue in general, were key discussion points.

Second Axis: Developments in Syria and Their Regional Impact

The discussions covered the recent political shifts in Syria, particularly the decline of the Ba’athist regime and the emergence of opposition forces led by Ahmed Shar’a. The committee examined the implications of these changes on the governance of Syria, the approaches of the new ruling authorities toward national and religious groups, and how these changes might influence Kurdish rights and political representation.

Additionally, President Barzani’s meeting with the commander of the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) was deemed crucial. The efforts made by President Barzani to bring Kurdish factions in Syria closer together and ensure their collective role in shaping the new Syrian political landscape were acknowledged as highly significant. The committee also assessed how regional and international actors view these developments.

Third Axis: The Peace Process in Turkey and the Visit of the HDP Delegation to the Kurdistan Region

The committee underscored the importance of the peace process in Turkey and emphasized the need for a conducive environment, cooperation, and mutual understanding to advance this initiative. It reaffirmed the responsibility of all parties to prioritize national and societal interests above all else.

Fourth Axis: Lebanon’s Political Crisis

The meeting addressed the ongoing conflict between Hezbollah and Israel, the escalating military confrontations, and their humanitarian impact on Lebanon’s population, leading to significant displacement. The political maneuvering of international actors and their influence on Lebanon’s internal stability were also discussed.

The meeting noted that Lebanon’s political system had faced prolonged deadlock, delaying government formation and the election of key officials. The committee examined how this crisis affects Lebanon’s regional role and Hezbollah’s position within it.

Fifth Axis: KDP’s Relations with Iraqi Political Forces

Since the formation of Prime Minister Mohammed Shia’ Al-Sudani’s government, based on political agreements with the Coordination Framework and Sunni blocs, the KDP has worked towards supporting governance, public service delivery, and the implementation of the government's agenda.

The meeting particularly addressed outstanding issues such as the Kurdistan Region’s budget and the salaries of its employees, emphasizing the importance of resolving these matters within the constitutional framework. The committee reaffirmed that Kurdistan’s financial entitlements should not be politicized and must be respected as stipulated in the Iraqi Constitution.

Additionally, the committee reiterated its support for the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) in its efforts to find lasting solutions to financial and administrative disputes with Baghdad.

Sixth Axis: Formation of the New KRG Cabinet and Government Negotiations

Following the Kurdistan parliamentary elections held on October 20, 2024, the KDP established a high-level committee for negotiations with other political parties. After the announcement of election results, the committee engaged in discussions with all participating political forces to facilitate the convening of the new parliament and the formation of the new KRG cabinet.

Substantial progress was made in reaching common ground, particularly in discussions with the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (PUK). However, further dialogue is required, with negotiations set to commence in the coming week. The KDP remains optimistic that an agreement on the parliamentary leadership and the new cabinet will soon be reached based on the principle of a unified administration, a single government, and a cohesive military force.

Seventh Axis: Internal Party Affairs

Election of Party Committees in Key Areas: The meeting reviewed the internal election process for party organs in Nineveh, Kirkuk, Garmian, and Baghdad, which was successfully conducted under party regulations and guidelines.

Cadre Development Program: The KDP remains committed to capacity building, with the 20th session of the Party Academy set to launch as part of a broader strategy for strengthening political and administrative leadership.

Preparations for the Next Iraqi Parliamentary Elections: The meeting emphasized the importance of early preparations and the role of different party structures in ensuring a strong KDP presence in the upcoming elections. A special committee was formed to examine legal aspects and outline a strategic roadmap for electoral participation.

Post-Election Assessment: Following the recent internal party elections in the Kurdistan Region and its external offices, a review committee was established to assess strengths and weaknesses in the process and provide recommendations for future improvements. The Political Bureau was assigned to oversee the implementation of these recommendations.

The Kurdistan Democratic Party remains steadfast in its commitment to serving the people of Kurdistan, strengthening the region’s political standing, and ensuring stability and progress. The Central Committee emphasized that all political initiatives and decisions must align with national interests, constitutional principles, and the collective aspirations of the Kurdish people.

KDP Central Committee

February 15, 2025