Bafel Jalal Talabani, president of the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (PUK), visited Kirkuk on Tuesday, emphasizing that the province must serve as a model for “coexistence” and pledging to make it the “most peaceful” province in Iraq.

During his visit, Talabani, accompanied by the Governor of Kirkuk, met with clerics, listening to their concerns and proposals.

He also attended an iftar gathering with the clerics, alongside members of the PUK Political Bureau and party leadership.

Addressing citizens in the center of Kirkuk following the meetings, Talabani reaffirmed his party's commitment to serving all components of the province.

"We will not allow Kirkuk to be described as a problem. Instead, it will be an example of coexistence, and we will make it the most peaceful and cleanest province in Iraq," he said.