In an interview with Channel8 at the 9th Sulaimani Forum on Wednesday, Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Saeed Khatibzadeh addressed Iran-Kurdistan Region relations, recent U.S. talks, Tehran’s negotiation conditions, and its stance on Syria.
Khatibzadeh stated that the Kurdistan Region and Iran have had “close relations” in recent years, adding that President Masoud Pezeshkian’s recent visit to the Kurdistan Region was “very important” and marked a key moment in their relations.
Reflecting on the past agreement with the United States, Khatibzadeh stated, “What is happening now between Iran and the United States is a complement to the process that took place in 2013–2015.” He also criticized the U.S. for its “illegal and unilateral” withdrawal from the deal.
Regarding the upcoming talks scheduled for Saturday, he stated, “This time, the United States must have a constructive agenda for an agreement, not an illusion,” and expressed optimism that an agreement or a framework of understanding could be reached at the appropriate time.
On Iran’s conditions for the upcoming talks, Khatibzadeh stated that there must be a condition that can lead to a “comprehensive agreement” with the United States, emphasizing that “there are red lines—our defense systems are non-negotiable. Every country has the right to protect itself.”
He emphasized that these issues have been clearly communicated to the other side, stating, “No country should ever be a threat to our security.”
Addressing the situation in Syria, Khatibzadeh said Tehran had sought to stay out of the conflict, but noted, “Unfortunately, the current situation in Syria has not eased our concerns. The Syrian people are now under occupation.”
He voiced hope for the establishment of a “diverse government, one that respects its communities.”
The 9th Sulaimani Forum commenced on Wednesday at the American University of Iraq, Sulaimani (AUIS), uniting local and international leaders to tackle key challenges impacting Iraq, the region, and the world.
Barzani Addresses Regional Issues and Stresses International Cooperation at 9th Sulaimani Forum
Daban Mohammed
Kurdistan Region President Nechirvan Barzani attended the 9th Sulaimani Forum on Wednesday and addressed key regional issues. He noted that the forum comes at a time of significant geopolitical changes in the region, which are reshaping international relations and could impact both regional and global dynamics.
Barzani emphasized that the Kurdistan Region believes in the importance of international cooperation to address these challenges.
On the Kurdish issue in Turkey, Barzani referred to the peace process as a historic opportunity, stating, “We support the process that has started in Turkey.”
He welcomed the peace efforts and highlighted the potential to enhance stability in the region. He added that this is an opportunity to strengthen stability and open a new chapter of constructive cooperation that will benefit the entire region.
Regarding Syria, Barzani expressed satisfaction that all Kurdish parties are united in seeking a peaceful resolution to the Kurdish issue in Syria. He reaffirmed, “We support a peaceful solution of the Kurdish issue in Syria.”
Barzani called for the establishment of a democratic Syria that guarantees the rights of all communities, stressing that this would contribute to regional stability.
He stated, “The Syrian government must reflect all communities in the country and protect the rights of all without discrimination.”
On relations with neighboring countries, Barzani reiterated the Kurdistan Region’s commitment to strengthening ties with both its neighbors and the international community.
He emphasized the importance of collaboration with Iraq and regional countries for stability and development, noting, “The cooperation between Erbil and Baghdad will continue, and the development of the Kurdistan Region depends on the stability of Iraq.”
On the federal government, Barzani reaffirmed the Kurdistan Region’s commitment to the Iraqi constitution, emphasizing that federalism, pluralism, and partnership are crucial for safeguarding the rights of all communities.
Barzani thanked Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani for his efforts in resolving issues, stating that his approach to reducing conflicts is the right one.
He also called on the Iraqi government to implement the Property Restitution Law and reactivate the committee to enforce Article 140 of the Iraqi constitution.
Emphasizing the importance of continued constructive dialogue, he stated that the Kurdistan Region will work with the federal government to find permanent solutions to all issues, ensuring the interests and constitutional rights of all communities in Iraq.
Regarding the formation of the government and the election of the Kurdistan Parliament presidency, Barzani highlighted the urgency of activating the Kurdistan Parliament in light of current regional challenges. He urged the Kurdistan Democratic Party, the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan, and the winning parties to prioritize the formation of the tenth cabinet.
SuliForum25: Iraqi PM Invites Syria to Arab Summit, Highlights Development and Reform Achievements
Ahmed Mohammed
Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani announced on Wednesday that Iraq has officially invited Syrian President Ahmed Al-Sharaa to attend the upcoming Arab Summit in Baghdad, emphasizing that the summit reflects Iraq’s regional standing and growing importance.
Speaking during the 9th Sulaymaniyah Forum, Al-Sudani praised the host city’s progress, stating, “Sulaymaniyah today is witnessing rapid development and enjoying the fruits of stability and prosperity. Since the first day of assuming responsibility, our mission has been clear: to put Iraq first.”
He also addressed the evolving dynamic between Baghdad and the Kurdistan Region. “The relationship between Baghdad and Erbil has shifted to a technical and legal dialogue — this is a first,” he said. “The oil and gas law is no longer optional; it has become an urgent necessity.”
Highlighting Iraq’s broader progress, the Prime Minister pointed to the country’s resilience. “Our people have endured decades of oppression and hardship. Now, as we move into the second quarter of the 21st century, Iraq is writing a unique success story in every province.”
He continued, “In every Iraqi city, there are ongoing service and urban development projects. We have prioritized youth empowerment, recognizing that our young people are the strongest asset in facing future challenges.”
Al-Sudani also noted improvements in infrastructure development. “The number of stalled projects has dropped to under 850 after being in the thousands,” he said. “We have launched the largest power production initiative, and for the first time, we are entering the field of solar and renewable energy.”
On the environmental front, Al-Sudani shared a significant milestone: “We’ve exceeded a 70% reduction in gas flaring, but Iraq still requires bold and comprehensive reforms to meet its full potential.”
Ninth Sulaimani Forum opens at AUIS to address key regional and global challenges
Daban Mohammed
The 9th Sulaimani Forum commenced on Wednesday, bringing together both local and international leaders and officials.
The Sulaimani Forum, taking place on April 16 and 17 at the American University of Iraq, Sulaimani (AUIS), aims to address key challenges confronting Iraq, the wider region, and the international community.
Regarded as the oldest and most influential political event in the Kurdistan Region, the Sulaimani Forum gathers leaders, researchers, and intellectuals from across the Middle East, Europe, the United States, and beyond.
This year’s forum is organized in collaboration with several leading international institutions, including Chatham House, the Italian Institute of International Affairs (IAI), the International Crisis Group, Century International, and the Issam Fares Institute at the American University of Beirut.
Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani, along with several ministers from the Iraqi government, and Kurdistan Region Prime Minister Masrour Barzani, accompanied by ministers from the Kurdistan Regional Government, are expected to attend the forum in Sulaymaniyah.
According to the forum’s agenda, attendees will include Deputy Prime Minister Gubad Talabani; Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (PUK) President Bafel Jalal Talabani; National Wisdom Movement leader Ammar al-Hakim; the UN Secretary-General’s Special Representative for Iraq, Mohamed al-Hassan; Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP) Political Bureau member Hoshyar Zebari; and AUIS Board of Trustees Founder and Chairman Dr. Barham Salih.
The forum’s discussions will cover Iraq’s upcoming elections, the current political landscape, and the evolving domestic dynamics in relation to regional and international developments.
Key regional topics will also be addressed, including the formation of a new government in Damascus, ongoing changes in Lebanon, and heightened focus on challenges in Rojava.
Established in 2013, the Sulaimani Forum is one of Iraq and the region’s prominent political gatherings, launched by the Institute of Regional and International Studies (IRIS) at the American University of Iraq, Sulaimani.
