Deputy PM Talabani meets with US Assistant Secretary of State for Near Eastern Affairs

Erbil, Kurdistan Region, Iraq (GOV.KRD) – Deputy Prime Minister Qubad Talabani on Wednesday met with the US Assistant Secretary of State for Near Eastern Affairs, Barbara Leaf, and the US Ambassador to Iraq, Elina Romanowski, to discuss recent political developments in Iraq and disputes between Erbil and Baghdad regarding oil and gas.

Addressing the decision made by the Federal Court of Iraq on oil exploration and sales in the country, the Deputy Prime Minister emphasized the issue does not lie with which body is responsible for the export of natural resources but instead with how revenues are distributed. He stressed that the Kurdistan Region must be guaranteed its fair share of the federal budget and have its constitutional rights and entitlements honored by the Federal Government.

Deputy Prime Minister Talabani called on the US to provide additional support to the Kurdistan Region and Iraq to help resolve these disputes through meaningful dialogue. Both side also agreed that all parties must resume talks in Baghdad to address the worsening political situation and prevent violent conflict amid increased tensions.

Deputy Prime Minister also noted that the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) remains committed to the implementation of its reform agenda to improve public services and strengthen the economy. He stated the government welcomes any additional assistance from the US on the reform process.