Kurdistan Region President Meets Iraq’s First Deputy Speaker of Parliament

ARK News.. Kurdistan Region President Nechirvan Barzani received Iraq’s First Deputy Speaker of Parliament, Mohsen al-Mandalawi, on Monday, September 22, 2025, accompanied by the Second Deputy Speaker and several members of parliament.

The discussions focused on Iraq’s overall political situation, preparations for the upcoming parliamentary elections, the work and agenda of the Council of Representatives, relations between Erbil and Baghdad, and broader regional developments.

Both sides stressed the importance of addressing Iraq’s key challenges—particularly resolving the outstanding disputes between Erbil and Baghdad—based on the constitution and prior agreements, as a path toward security, stability, and progress.

President Barzani expressed appreciation for all parties working toward solutions and reaffirmed his support for efforts to secure a settlement between the Kurdistan Regional Government and the federal government over budget entitlements and public-sector salaries in the Kurdistan Region.

The two sides also agreed on the need to hold the next parliamentary elections on schedule, emphasizing that strengthening Iraq’s democratic process is essential for ensuring long-term stability and security.

The meeting further highlighted the importance of joint work and cooperation among Iraq’s political components and parties to advance shared national interests.

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