Deputy Prime Minister Qubad Talabani recently engaged in talks with a US Senate delegation comprised of Senator Ted Budd, Senator Joni Ernst, and accompanying members. The meeting, which took place on Saturday, saw the attendance of the US Ambassador to Iraq and the Consul General of the United States in the Kurdistan Region.
During the dialogue, the Senate delegation reaffirmed the US’s steadfast support for the Kurdistan Region, emphasizing that their visit symbolizes the US’s dedication to nurturing its ties with the Kurdistan Region.
Expressing gratitude for the US’s ongoing aid and backing in various areas, particularly in counterterrorism efforts and the reformation initiatives within the Peshmerga forces, Talabani acknowledged the importance of such partnerships in advancing regional security.
Security concerns within Kurdistan, Iraq, and the broader region were thoroughly deliberated upon, underscoring the necessity for collaborative efforts between the Peshmerga forces, Iraqi forces, and coalition forces to combat the looming threat of terrorism—a menace that continues to imperil the security landscape of Iraq and the Kurdistan Region.
Moreover, discussions zeroed in on the internal affairs of the Kurdistan Region, including deliberations on the impending Kurdistan parliamentary elections. Talabani emphasized his stance and that of the PUK to the visiting delegation, standing firm against any proposal to delay the elections, citing the potentially detrimental impact such a postponement could have on the region’s institutional legitimacy and democratic processes.
Touching upon relations between the Kurdistan Region and Baghdad, Talabani conveyed optimism regarding progress made on the budget and salary matters concerning the Kurdistan Region. He stated that concerted efforts were underway to address these critical issues comprehensively, signaling a positive trajectory towards their resolution.
