Kurdistan Region president says region's future tied to strong partnership with Baghdad

ERBIL, Iraq — Kurdistan Region President Nechirvan Barzani said on Sunday that the region's future is tied to building a strong partnership with the federal government in Baghdad, outlining a broad roadmap for relations between Erbil and the central authorities. In a statement released on June 21, 2026, Barzani emphasized that stability in the region serves the common interest of both sides and that his administration remains committed to reaching a lasting understanding with Baghdad. According to the statement, Barzani's message focused on the political, economic and security steps needed to strengthen bilateral ties. He stressed the importance of dialogue and compromise in implementing constitutional rights and resolving federal disputes between the Kurdistan Region and Iraq's central government. The remarks come amid ongoing negotiations between Erbil and Baghdad over long-standing disputes, including budget sharing, oil revenues and the implementation of constitutional provisions. Barzani's statement frames the partnership as essential to the region's political and economic trajectory, though no specific timelines or new agreements were announced.