Erbil, Kurdistan Region, Iraq (cabinet.gov.krd) – Prime Minister Nechirvan Barzani received British ambassador to Iraq Mr. Jon Wilks and his accompanying delegation.

They discussed the latest developments and talks on the formation of the new Iraqi government.

Ambassador Wilks highlighted the significant role that the Kurdistan Region can play in the formation and participation in the decisions of the next Iraqi government.

He noted that the outstanding issues between the Kurdistan Region and Baghdad need to be addressed through negotiations. The delegation welcomed the initiatives of Prime Minister Barzani in this regard.

They also welcomed the holding of the Kurdistan parliamentary elections on time, and hoped it will be a successful process.

Prime Minister Barzani stressed the importance of the unity among the Kurdistan political blocs which would strengthen the position of the Kurdistan Region in Baghdad. He said the participation and the positive role of the Kurdistan Region in the new Iraqi parliament and government are important for the settlement of the differences between the KRG and Baghdad.

He expressed his satisfaction with the participation of most of the Kurdish political parties in the upcoming elections of the Kurdistan Parliament. He pointed out that the electoral campaign is being conducted so far in a satisfactory way. He hoped after the elections a government will be formed that can actively implement the planned government reforms.

The security and the political situation in the wider region were also discussed in the meeting.