Peshawa Hawramani, Spokesperson for the Kurdistan Regional Government, stated that the KRG proposed the formation of a Permanent High-Level Ministerial Coordination Committee with the federal government to resolve outstanding issues and maintain ongoing cooperation, adding that Erbil intends to cooperate with Baghdad to facilitate operations for international oil companies.

The KRG Council of Ministers met Wednesday to address Erbil-Baghdad issues over oil management, customs systems, and revenue deficits.

One of the key agenda items of the session was the establishment of a Permanent High-Level Ministerial Coordination Committee with Baghdad to ensure the continuous implementation of bilateral agreements and decisions.

Erbil, Baghdad to Form High-Level Coordination Body 

Following the session, Hawramani told a press conference that to advance the relationship between the KRG and the federal government, a permanent, high-level joint committee will be established, adding that Baghdad welcomed the initiative.

He noted that the KRG proposed the establishment of the committee, saying that while the body will maintain a permanent core membership, its composition remains flexible to adjust based on operational requirements.

“Our objective within this committee extends beyond merely addressing existing disputes; it is designed to systematically advance bilateral relations and foster broader cooperation,” he added.

Hawramani emphasized that the procedural steps to establish this body will move forward imminently.

Security and Cost Guarantees to Restart Oil Operations 

Regarding the oil issues between both sides, the spokesperson emphasized the KRG’s readiness to fully collaborate with the federal government in supporting international oil companies to ensure an immediate resumption of production in the Kurdistan Region.

He underlined that if Baghdad guarantees the security of oil companies and takes their production costs into consideration, operations will resume soon in the Kurdistan.

Erbil Open to ASYCUDA Customs System Integration 

On ASYCUDA customs integration, Hawramani affirmed that the KRG is “not opposed to this system.”

He noted that the KRG should have received prior notification—consistent with other regions in Iraq—to allow for adequate preparations, as the implementation requires extensive logistical readiness.

“It is not an overly complex issue that would keep us apart,” he added.

KRG Demonstrated ‘Goodwill’ and Prepares for Baghdad Visit

Hawramani further remarked that the KRG demonstrated “goodwill,” a commitment to resolving outstanding issues, and cooperation with Baghdad.

He added that the key objective remains to settle all disputes with the Federal Government.

The spokesperson also confirmed that the KRG economic delegation will visit Baghdad soon to discuss various issues.