Bafel Jalal Talabani, President of the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (PUK), met with Tom Barrack, the U.S. Special Presidential Envoy for Iraq and Syria, on Monday, during which they discussed bilateral ties, regional peace, and the new KRG and Iraqi governments. 

In his inaugural visit as Special Presidential Envoy on Monday, Barrack arrived in Baghdad to discuss U.S.–Iraq relations and a "partnership on a new direction."

Talabani’s Press Office issued a statement today, noting that the meeting, which was also attended by Qubad Talabani, Deputy Prime Minister of the Kurdistan Region, addressed the latest developments in the Kurdistan Region and Iraq. 

U.S.–Iran Deal Deemed Key to Regional Stability 

Both sides described the recently announced deal between the United States and Iran to end the conflict as "important for maintaining regional stability."

Leaders Stress Support for New Iraqi Government 

The leaders emphasized the importance of supporting the current Iraqi government, led by Prime Minister Ali Faleh al-Zaidi since mid-May, to overcome current crises, face upcoming challenges, and achieve political, economic, and security stability. 

Talabani Warns KRG's Legitimacy At Risk 

On the new Kurdistan Regional Government cabinet, which has not been formed since the 2024 elections, Talabani expressed his concern over the failure of the process, stating that "the legitimacy and credibility of the current government are beginning to be called into question." 

Kurdistan Strategic Plan Can Resolve Iraq’s Energy Crisis 

Talabani and Barrack also discussed energy issues, with the PUK President highlighting that "the Kurdistan Region, through a strategic plan, could resolve the energy crisis throughout Iraq."