President Barzani affirmed that the KDP has no objections to any party forming the next cabinet of the KRG, stressing that decisions will be based solely on the results of the parliamentary elections.
President Masoud Barzani addressed key political and regional issues during an interview with Sky News Arabia on Tuesday, emphasizing the importance of peace and cooperation amidst ongoing challenges in the Middle East.
President Barzani affirmed that the Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP) has no objections to any party forming the next cabinet of the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG), stressing that decisions will be based solely on the results of the parliamentary elections. “We believe in one government and one united region,” Barzani said, advocating for political cohesion in the Kurdistan Region.
Touching on Iraq’s position in the escalating Middle Eastern tensions, President Barzani warned against the country being drawn into regional conflicts, stating that such involvement could have harmful repercussions. He called on all parties to prioritize peace.
Regarding relations with Baghdad, President Barzani described the current ties between Erbil and the federal government as “good,” though he acknowledged lingering challenges. Among these is the Kurdistan Region’s share of Iraq’s federal budget, which he criticized as being “unfair.” Despite these difficulties, he expressed optimism about resolving disputes through dialogue.
President Barzani also commented on the Kurdistan Region’s relations with neighboring Iran and Turkey, characterizing them as “normal” while underscoring the importance of maintaining independence. “It is not in the Kurdish interest to have complicated relations with Iran and Turkey. However, we will not allow anyone to interfere in our affairs,” he said.
He also voiced concerns about Iraq’s military capabilities, highlighting weaknesses in the country’s air force. He cautioned that the withdrawal of international coalition forces without adequately equipping the Iraqi army could exacerbate security vulnerabilities.