President Barzani meets with international representatives based in Erbil

Kurdistan Region President Massoud Barzani received a number of chiefs of missions, consul generals and other international diplomats who are based in Erbil at an annual meeting for talks on regional developments and internal issues.

 

Mr Barzani began by warmly welcoming the participants before moving on to speak about the current problems facing the region such as the war against the terrorist organization, Islamic State of Iraq and Levant (ISIL) and tensions between the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) and central government in Baghdad.

He focused on the current military situation against ISIL, he described them as "an advanced version of al-Qaeda" adding that while they and other terrorist groups in Iraq were religious fundamentalists, the terrorists of ISIL have combined their religious and nationalistic extremism. Mr Barzani also spoke of the arbitrary murders against civilians and military personnel and how that brutality poses a great danger to the wider Region.

The President also reflected on the successful military operations against the terrorists in both Iraq and Syria, but stressed on the important process of liberating Mosul and how the liberation of Musol will have a huge affect and substantial damage to the terrorists. However, he added that while the liberation of Mosul must be of utmost importance to Erbil, Baghdad and international allies, there ought to be plans for post-liberation construction of the city.

President Barzani also emphasized to the diplomats on the relations between Erbil and Baghdad and how there are ongoing efforts to enhance those relations and resolve rising tensions. He also spoke of the economic challenges facing both Erbil and Baghdad as both capitals are engaged in a costly war against the terrorists.