Talabani: Kurdistan Must Reduce Reliance on Oil, Diversify Economy

SULAYMANIYAH, Iraq — Kubad Talabani, Deputy Prime Minister of the Kurdistan Regional Government, called on the region to diversify its income sources to achieve economic stability, saying reliance on oil alone is insufficient. Speaking at the Deli Economic Forum in Sulaymaniyah, Talabani said reform slogans must translate into concrete steps. He noted that Sulaymaniyah plays a significant regional role in political, economic, cultural and intellectual spheres, and that development should extend beyond capitals to all cities and regions. Talabani said equal opportunities between provinces and regions are fundamental to balanced development and sustainable stability. He added that the Kurdistan Region is an effective partner in Iraq's overall development and that cooperation with the federal government should be strengthened. He also emphasized the need for greater women's participation in decision-making mechanisms and leadership institutions.