At a Glance

• Mohammed Shia al-Sudani spoke at the MERI Forum in Erbil.
• He called for institutional solutions to Baghdad and Erbil disputes.
• He backed Ali Faleh al-Zaidi's government and its efforts to build state institutions.
• He said Iraq can help reduce regional tensions and support stability.

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Mohammed Shia al-Sudani, leader of the Reconstruction and Development Alliance and former Iraqi prime minister, said Iraq must play an active role in regional affairs, while calling for institutional solutions to longstanding disputes between Baghdad and the Kurdistan Region during the MERI Forum in Erbil on Monday, October 12, 2026.

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Key Statements and Focus Area

• Political Relations: “Relations between Iraq and the Kurdistan Region require an institutional framework rather than temporary fixes.” — Mohammed Shia al-Sudani
• Regional Role: “Iraq is a player and not just a spectator.” — Mohammed Shia al-Sudani
• Government Formation: Al-Sudani said his alliance is working to ensure the success of Ali Faleh al-Zaidi's cabinet.

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Baghdad and Erbil Relations

Al-Sudani said his cabinet had taken significant steps to address disputes between the Kurdistan Region and the federal government, adding that those efforts came at a political cost.

Support for Al-Zaidi's Government

He urged the Iraqi government to follow a course that would strengthen state institutions and establish an exemplary model of governance.

Security and International Cooperation

Al-Sudani described Iraq as entering a sensitive phase following the conclusion of the international coalition’s mission in the country.

He expressed confidence in the Iraqi army and security forces to protect the country from threats, while stressing that the end of the coalition mission does not mean Iraq will sever ties with coalition member states.

He added that Iraq would remain part of international efforts to combat terrorism. Al-Sudani also said the government had a comprehensive plan to bring weapons held by armed groups outside state control under government authority.

Iraq’s Regional Role

Al-Sudani said Iraq could contribute to easing regional tensions and promoting stability. He pointed to the country’s geographical position, natural resources, and human capital as advantages that could support a range of economic partnerships.

FYI

The Middle East Research Institute’s annual MERI Forum brings together Iraqi and Kurdistan Region officials, policymakers, and other participants to discuss political, security, and economic developments. The forum’s first day also featured remarks by Kurdistan Region President Nechirvan Barzani and PUK President Bafel Jalal Talabani.

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