U.S. Ambassador to Turkey and Special Envoy for Syria and Iraq Tom Barrack said he welcomed Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (PUK) President Bafel Jalal Talabani and Kurdistan Regional Government Deputy Prime Minister Qubad Talabani for discussions focused on strengthening ties between the United States and Iraq.

On behalf of U.S. President Donald Trump, Barrack said the meeting centered on forging a "strong and mutually beneficial U.S.-Iraq partnership," including through Washington's "enduring friendship" with the Iraqi Kurdistan Region.

"Vital Contributions" to Iraq's Sovereignty

Barrack commended the Kurdish leaders for their "vital contributions" toward ensuring that Iraq can effectively safeguard its sovereignty and fully realize the potential of its partnership with the United States.

The discussions underscored the importance Washington places on its longstanding relationship with the Kurdistan Region and its continued support for a stable, sovereign, and prosperous Iraq.

Renewed Commitment to U.S.-Kurdistan Relations

The meeting reflects ongoing U.S. engagement with Kurdish political leaders amid regional challenges and signals a shared commitment to expanding political, economic, and security cooperation between Baghdad, Erbil, and Washington.

The United States and the Kurdistan Region have maintained close relations for decades, particularly in the fields of security cooperation, counterterrorism, and economic development, with recent diplomatic contacts highlighting efforts to further strengthen the strategic partnership.