Deputy PM Talabani meets US military delegation

Erbil, Kurdistan Region, Iraq (GOV.KRD) – Deputy Prime Minister Qubad Talabani on Tuesday met with a US military delegation led by Brigadier General Keith Phillips, senior military advisor to the US embassy in Iraq.

Both sides stressed the enduring threat of terrorism in Iraq and Syria and the need for greater cooperation between Iraqi, Peshmerga, and coalition forces to tackle this issue, notably in disputed territories.

Deputy Prime Minister Talabani warned of the adverse effects of delaying the formation of government on the country and emphasized that efforts to address the security vacuum in disputed territories must be underpinned by a political agreement between all parties in Iraq that prioritizes the safety of civilians, regardless of their religious, ethnic, or political affiliation. He also noted that ongoing negotiations should strive for consensus, mutual agreement, and good governance.

The Deputy Prime Minister updated the delegation on the Ministry of Peshmerga reforms, adding the next steps will aim to promote higher ethics and standards of conduct among soldiers pledging to serve and protect Kurdistan. The US delegation praised the Deputy Prime Minister’s role in elevating the file and advancing the reform process.