Erbil, Kurdistan Region, Iraq (cabinet.gov.krd) - Prime Minister Nechirvan Barzani received United States Ambassador to Iraq, Douglas A. Silliman, and his accompanying delegation.

Kurdistan Regional Government Deputy Prime Minister Qubad Talabani also attended the meeting.

Ambassador Silliman voiced his concern about the recent conflict between the Peshmerga and Iraqi armed forces that led to casualties and major disruptions to civilian life. He expressed hope the current ceasefire would continue, tensions would subside, and dialogue would begin to resolve disputes. He also expressed his country’s support for the KRG and political parties to normalise the political situation in the Region.

Prime Minister Barzani reiterated the KRG’s unchanged stance and said his government has never favoured military confrontation between Erbil and Baghdad. He has, therefore, issued several statements calling for resuming dialogue with the Federal Government of Iraq. The Federal Government tried to exert pressure through force by armed attacks, leaving the Peshmerga with no option but to defend the Kurdistan Region.

Despite the violent attacks, he said the KRG stands ready to dialogue with Baghdad to resolve all outstanding issues. He  highlighted the important role the international community could play in supporting and facilitating this dialogue.

With elections being held within eight months, Prime Minister Barzani affirmed his government will continue its efforts to normalise the political situation in the Kurdistan Region.